May 2023 Akron Life Magazine

VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 5

STAR STRUCK

MAY 2023

Meet 5 c elebrities who are rep pin g The 3 3 0 an d givin g b a ck

KING’S COURT INSIDE LEBRON’S HOUSE THREE THIRTY RAPID GROWTH SHOP & DINE AT NEW CUYAHOGA FALLS SPOTS

MAY 2023 $4.95

“BACHELOR IN PARADISE” STAR MICHAEL ALLIO photo by Talia Hodge

NEW TUNE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON REMIXES ITS JAZZ PROGRAM

PAGES

MAY 2023 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 5

Pages start here

On The Cover

| 20 Personalities | photo by Talia Hodge

[ FEATURE ]

20 STAR STRUCK Local celebrities are proud of their 330 roots. Meet five stars who are giving back and repping the community on the big stage.

Marcus Martin in “Aladdin” photo by Deen van Meer

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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PAGES

55

10

52

UNCORKED

AGENDA

UNTAPPED

Duplin Winery

[ the essential social digest ]

Hightower Brewing Co.

[ DEPARTMENTS ]

06 MAIL BONDING 07 FROM THE PUBLISHER

10 AGENDA [ the essential social digest ] 11 Entertainment listings

+ Calendar of events 16 Inside Look: House Three Thirty

Strong Drive

08 RADAR [ seen + heard ]

09 UPFRONT

Revamping a jazz studies program

34 BEAUTY GUIDE Protecting your skin from the sun

[ notable food + drink ] 51 Restaurant listings 52 Untapped:

37 CUYAHOGA FALLS

Hightower Brewing Co. 55 Uncorked: Duplin Winery

59 PARTING SHOT Roy Rogers

akronlife.com | MAY 2023

32 EDUCATION

51 GOOD EATS

Shine Bright

4

Special Sections

Discover new dining and shopping

48 FOREVER YOUNG Competing in CrossFit in your 50s

PAGES MAIL BONDING SPRING 20

23

Tell us what's on your mind.

SUS TAI NA BLE SLE EK BEAUT Y

APRIL 2023 VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 4

TREAT YOUR PETS WITH GLAMOUR SHOTS, CUTE CLOTHES AND ARTFUL HAIR COLOR

MELINDA and JOE SCALFARO'S MODERN LAKE TOWNSHIP HOME photo by Lisa

Buie, Pixel Perfect Productions

AMAZING AKRON-C ENTRIC LOFT

NAVIGAT E THE HOT MARKET

Spoil Your Pets

SOKA THE BERNEDOODLE

photo by Meghan Winkler

LIGHT, AIRY OPEN FLOOR PLAN

HIT THE ROAD NEARBY SPRING FAMILY TRIPS CHILL OUT SIP 5 WARM WEATHER OHIO BEERS

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WHE T HER YO U

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WANT TO HOS T O R AT T E N D A

MAY 2023 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 5

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(ISSN No. 74 470 5787 1)

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akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2023© by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by an addressed envelope and sufficient postage.

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PAGES FROM THE PUBLISHER

[ Publisher | Colin Baker | cbaker@bakermediagroup.com ]

Strong Drive Improving my golf skills is all about the long game.

For a while now, I’ve been playing golf. Although I’ve made some progress, I still feel like a complete beginner. But this year, I’m determined to take my game to the next level.

I’ve been putting in the work, hitting the driving range and practicing my swing. I started a new golf training called Nitroswing. It’s a training program that uses speed, repetition and feedback from a machine that looks like it should belong in a gym instead of being used for golf instruction. It was developed by Frank Campitelli of Medina, who taught himself golf using this machine and later became the senior long drive champion.

After using the Nitroswing, I am hitting the ball with more power and feel strong. This isn’t the first time I have looked for some instruction or gadget to help me become a better golfer. I have a whole basement full of junk that is supposed to fix your swing, yet somehow, I still play about the same.

The golf improvement industry loves people like me. I’m willing to spend money with very little convincing if you somehow can show me your gadget will make a difference. I fall for it every time.

I got my golf improvement gadget addiction from my dad. It must be a hereditary disease. He didn’t spend his money on instruction and high-dollar fixes but rather on cheap little trinkets he would find online and at golf shows. He also made and invented a few of his own clubs, most of them being weird putters of all different shapes and sizes.

He probably had a point because most amateurs should spend 70 percent of their time on putting to really improve their game.

Unfortunately putting isn’t as much fun to practice as picking up the driver and smashing the ball.

As I continue practicing, I find myself drawn to one of the most inspiring tales I’ve come across — that of Ben Curtis, the unexpected winner of the 2003 British Open. He had 300 to 1 odds to win that year.

As I step onto the course for my first round of the season, I can feel the excitement building inside of me. I take a deep breath, line up my shot and swing. The ball flies through the air, landing softly on the green.

I can’t help but smile. This is it, I think to myself. This is the year I’m finally going to improve.

Curtis was a relatively unknown player in the golf world, with few people outside of his immediate circle even aware of his existence. And yet, he managed to outperform some of the biggest names in the sport and come out on top. His victory is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. You can read more about Curtis and other local celebrities on pg. 20.

But then, reality sets in. My next shot slices wildly to the right, landing in the rough.

I’m frustrated, but I shake it off and try again. The rest of the round doesn’t go quite as well as that first shot, and I finish the day feeling a bit disappointed. But I’m not discouraged. I know that improving my golf game is a process, and it’s not going to happen overnight.

Looking back on my journey, I realize that I’m no Curtis, and the key to improving my golf game is simply putting in the time and effort. I certainly will put in the effort. It’s the time that seems to always elude me, but I will try.

[ Publisher Colin Baker is a retired racing driver and gearhead. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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PAGES RADAR

by Shawn Davis

seen + heard

Yee Haw Place to Watch Dinner and a show mean something different at the new Pitchfork in Bath, where oysters get shucked and charcuterie boards get assembled in front of you at a 14-seat bar.

The 160-plus-seat restaurant from the team behind the Farmer’s Rail artisanal food market and butcher shop opens its full dining room this month with a live fire grill. Try octopus ceviche with jalapeno and a corn tostada and pick from the 36 self-serve wines on tap at the inhouse Eden wine bar. It’s in the new Corner Provisions complex that has a new Pav’s Creamery and Cafe 36 coffee shop, so leave room for dessert and coffee. 1070 Ghent Road, Akron, visitcornerprovisions.com

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akronlife.com | MAY 2023

Even the Rubber City has cowboys.

A country band with Akron roots, the Shootouts released its latest album, “Stampede,” Feb. 24, which is when it played the legendary Grand Ole Opry. Full of features by country legends like Jim Lauderdale and Marty Stuart, this album keeps the Rust Belt on the bluegrass-country map. Despite the big names, the band stays downto-earth with tracks like “Feelin’ Kind of Lonely Tonight.” It gets listeners dancing with the infectious crescendo of country swing performed by guitarist Brian Poston and bassist Kevin McManus, and it’s all wrapped up with the revelry of vocalist Emily Bates and lead singer and guitarist Ryan Humbert. shootoutsmusic.com

photo by Jamie Escola

Play Hard Witness waterfalls, hip whips and grand slams as the Akron Roller Derby season rolls on.

See Akron Roller Derby AllStars like Finnish-Her and Valkillree and AK Rowdy Rollers like Olive Pain and Ambitchous jam through the Black Rose Rollers in bouts at the Summit County Fairgrounds May 20. They face the Lehigh Valley & Quad County at the fairgrounds June 10. Grab a beer and cheer on the tough teams as they play the full-contact sport and smash, crash and bash their way to victories.

1050 North Ave., Tallmadge, akronrollerderby.net

PAGES UPFRONT

[ Managing Editor | Kelly Petryszyn | kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com ]

Shine Bright Local celebrities’ connections to Akron make an impact. photo by Kelly Petryszyn

After a transformation into House Three Thirty, the iconic Tangier is almost unrecognizable aside from the Cabaret that was kept in its original Las Vegas style.

The LeBron James Family Foundation made it into a modern showpiece with striking crystal chandeliers, curved velvet sofas and stylish event spaces. But despite all the glamour, I think House Three Thirty’s most influential spot is the Happy, Happy Room. It’s basic at first glance — an employee supply room with lip balms, snacks, toothbrushes, deodorants, feminine products and more — but to someone who may be struggling to secure those things, it’s a path to dignity. Plus, there’s a living room-style break area and a salon staffed with a hairstylist, braider and barber in addition to laundry, financial counseling, mentorship coaching and more. The concept of the room and House Three Thirty as a whole is radical — it’s built with employees in mind first. It’s taking a chance on the approach that designing a facility and a business model around employee satisfaction will result in a thriving business.

What I love about it too is that it’s a community center open to everyone, so for the first time, the public can experience the

impact of the foundation’s incredible work.

James and the foundation team are doing it because they care about the community.

As we caught up with local celebrities for “Star Struck” on pg. 20, what astounds me is that each keeps a connection to The 330 and takes opportunities to uplift the community, because they care about it too.

Read how British Open champ Ben Curtis is coaching aspiring golfers in Kent, “Bachelor in Paradise” star Michael Allio is developing a revolutionary treatment to a side effect of chemotherapy and “Aladdin” Broadway star Marcus Martin taught young actors at Weathervane Playhouse where he got his start.

I had the pleasure of talking to Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Rita Dove, and her words about Akron’s influence moved me.

“Growing up I felt that Akron and Ohio, in general, was such a wonderful place to live because it was a place of becoming. Things were always moving and growing,” she says. “It was a city where the world moved through.”

In our daily lives, Akron is everywhere, from the tires on our cars to the Quaker Oats on our breakfast tables to the Gojo

hand sanitizer dispensers in bathrooms.

Akronites are everywhere in pop culture too, from James playing for the Los Angeles Lakers to Dove’s book, “Playlist for the Apocalypse” gracing The New York Times’ list of 100 notable books of 2021.

Almost all the stars trace their start back to seeing examples of others living their dreams and being encouraged to do the same. Martin felt that he could make it to Broadway because of the people at Weathervane and beyond who supported him, and he loves to return the favor.

“I was that kid in my bedroom in Akron singing along to Broadway musicals, imagining I was onstage,” he says. “So to now get to inspire the kids that look like me, that’s the best part.”

U.S. Rep. Emilia Strong Sykes followed in her politician parents’ footsteps, and she speaks to young people about internships and being a congresswoman and even hears their concerns to take into consideration when legislating in Washington, D.C. As a young Black congresswoman, she’s faced several obstacles but has broken many barriers and is cognizant that her example is instrumental in helping others believe in their potentials and press on no matter what stands in their ways.

“It has to take society being willing to change the way they think and what they think the face of leadership is. It does look like someone like me,” she says.

Perhaps someone in The 330 or people on the pages of this magazine are inspiring you. These stories are a testament that when people feel represented, they are bolstered to go after their dreams, do incredible things and give back.

[ Managing Editor Kelly Petryszyn is an adventure seeker, forever a dreamer and an avid supporter of #TeamFiona. ] MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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AGENDA

MAY 2023 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 5

Agenda

the essential social digest photo provided by Kent State University

Through 7/23 “Head to Toe” Get a glimpse of items like coats, hats and shoes from the museum’s permanent collection. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and

all on Sunday, otherwise $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

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akronlife.com | MAY 2023

NOTE: Dates, events, locations, times and prices are subject to change. Please call ahead.

Through 5/7 “Accessible Expressions Ohio” View pieces made by artists with disabilities in this juried exhibit presented by Art Possible Ohio. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. TuesdaySaturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org

Through 5/13 “Detumescence” Take in works by the Cleveland-based artist Bedel Tiscareño, a Mexican American painter and sculptor. KSU Downtown Gallery, 141 E. Main St., Kent. Free. Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. & Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. kent.edu/galleries Through 5/14 “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” See

this Pulitzer Prize-winning piece by Tennessee Williams performed by the Ohio Shakespeare Festival. Greystone Hall, 103 S. High St., Akron. Thursday-Saturday 8 p.m. & Sunday 2 p.m. $5-$50. ohioshakespeare.com

Through 5/14 “Good Hope” Peruse wall-size

pieces by a South African illustration studio. Pieces are inspired by the artists’ hometown environments. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wednesday, FridaySunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m. $12 adults. akronartmusuem.org

Through 5/28 “Davon Brantley: Awaken in the Garden My Love” See drawings, oil paintings,

sculptures and installations by Davon Brantley.

Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon.

Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 2-5 p.m.

Free. massillonmuseum.org

Through 5/28 “Pathfinders: Kent State University School of Fashion Alumni” Check out diverse approaches to fashion by Kent State University alumni who have at least six years of experience after graduation, such as Jules Acree, Deanna First, Keama Garrett, Joshua Hupper, Miyako Nakamura and Anne Skoch. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sunday, otherwise $6 general public. kent. edu/museum

Through 6/17 Spring Exhibitions Browse art

from the exhibits at Summit Artspace, including “Black Spaces: Defying Social Constructs,” “Women’s Art League 90th Anniversary,” “The things we carry,” “Artists of Rubber City Juried Exhibition” and more. Summit Artspace, 140 E. Market St., Akron. Friday noon-7 p.m. & Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. summitartspace.org

Through 7/2 “Tigers vs. Bulldogs: Origins of a Historic Rivalry” Learn about the history and

rivalry between the Massillon and Canton professional football teams of the early 20th century at this exhibit that displays photographs and artifacts from both teams. Massillon Museum, Paul Brown Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org

Through 7/23 “Head to Toe” Get a glimpse of items like coats, hats and shoes from the museum’s permanent collection. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sunday, otherwise $6 general public. kent.edu/ museum

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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AGENDA

Through 8/27 “As the World Weds: Global Wedding Traditions” This Kent State University

Museum exhibit features pieces of clothing beyond white dresses that are incorporated in wedding ceremonies around the world. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sundays, otherwise $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

5/2-5/7 Akron RubberDucks vs. Portland Sea Dogs Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our

minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. Times and prices vary. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. akronrubberducks.com

5/2-7/23 “Borderless: Artist Migration from the CMA Collection” View pieces

that tell stories and journeys of artists who have experienced migration, immigration and displacement. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Free members, $8 adults. cantonart.org

5/2-7/23 “Finding Home: Four Artists’ Journeys” Check out more than 150 drawings,

paintings, linoleum block prints and digital mixedmedia works by Frances Jetter, David Macaulay, James McMullan and Yuyi Morales, who depict the immigration experience. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 adults. cantonart.org

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akronlife.com | MAY 2023

5/3 & 5/4 May 4 Commemoration The 53rd commemoration of the May 4, 1970, shootings at Kent State University includes events like a lecture series, a screening of the film “Young Plato,” a candlelight walk, a performance by the Kent Chorale and more. Kent State University, 800 E. Summit St., Kent. kent.edu/may4 5/4 Good Garden Talks: Healthy Garden Soil & Compost Learn about using organic waste

materials to create healthy soil during this event hosted

by Summit Metro Parks in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron and Ohio State University Extension. Summit Lake Nature Center, 411 Ira Ave., Akron. 6:30-7:30 p.m. summitmetroparks.org

5/4-9/30 “World of Wonders” This exhibit

with work by pop funk sculptor Clayton Bailey is open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Polsky Building, 225 S. Main St., Akron. 4-8 p.m. curatedstorefront.org

5/5, 5/12, 5/19 & 5/26 Lunchtime Yoga Relax with some beginner-friendly yoga at the Massillon Museum each Friday. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 12:30-1:15 p.m. $6 class, $15 three classes. massillonmuseum.org 5/6 Classy Canvas Get inspired at this adults-only event that guides you through painting a scene of nature’s beauty. Registration is required. Summit Lake Nature Center, 411 Ira Ave., Akron. 10-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-2 p.m. summitmetroparks.org

5/6 In Concert with Joe Lovano Listen as

Grammy Award-winning saxophonist, composer and producer Joe Lovano performs with the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra. HUG Event Center, 133 Merriman Road, Akron.

7 p.m. $10-$35. akronc3.org

5/6 Putt Around Downtown Play a round of mini golf at downtown Kent businesses during this event by Main Street Kent. Downtown Kent. Noon-5 p.m. $15. mainstreetkent.org

5/6, 5/13, 5/20 & 5/27 Winery Tours Explore

Gervasi Vineyard’s winemaking facility, then enjoy four wine tastings and four chef-selected bites. Gervasi Vineyard, the Crush House, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton.

1:30-2:30 p.m. or 3:30-4:30 p.m. $27. gervasivineyard. com

5/7 Biggest Week Bird Walk Hike with a naturalist to celebrate the Biggest Week in American Birding.

Bring binoculars. Cascade Valley Metro Park, Valley View Area, 1212 Cuyahoga St., Akron. 8-10:30 a.m. summitmetroparks.org 5/7 The Righteous Brothers Watch a performance by this musical duo, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 6 p.m. $45-$75. cantonpalacetheatre.org

5/7, 5/21 & 5/28 Distillery Tasting Tours Go

behind the scenes of the distillery at Gervasi Vineyard during a tour, then enjoy three spirit tastings and take home a shot glass. Gervasi Vineyard, the Still House, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 2-3 p.m. $17. gervasivineyard.com

AGENDA

5/10 Twilight Walk Explore the grounds during the evening with the education staff or on your own.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron.

7:30-8:30 p.m. Free members, $13 general admission. stanhywet.org 5/11 A Return to Bach’s Coffeehouse Take in

pieces such as Vivaldi’s “La Notte,” Telemann’s concerto for flute and recorder and Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 6. First United Methodist Church, 263 E. Mill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $10-$73. apollosfire.org

5/13 Richard Fly Memorial Catfish Fishing Derby Kiddos ages 4 to 15 can compete in this fishing

competition. Petros Lake Park, 3519 Perry Drive SW, Canton. 8 a.m. starkparks.com

5/13 Sweat Now, Wine Later Adventure Race Embrace your adventurous side with this race

that involves both kayaking and running or walking.

Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 9 a.m. $75. gervasivineyard.com

5/10 & 5/24 Hooks & Books Discuss what you’ve been reading while you sew or knit at this event at 6 p.m.

May 10 and 2 p.m. May 24. White Rabbit Galleries, 571 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton. Free. barbertonlibrary.org 5/13 Special Needs Fishing Derby Children and

adults can compete for trophies, which are awarded to those who catch the three largest fish. Firestone Metro Park, Little Turtle Pond, 2400 Harrington Road, Akron. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. summitmetroparks.org

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MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

13

SPONSORED CONTENT

50 Years of Expertise

Akron Monument & Granite Co. Akron Monument & Granite Co. is proud to announce that its founder and owner, Jim Leone, is celebrating his 50th year in the monument business, offering families personalized service creating monuments that honor their loved ones.

Leone takes the time to carefully work with each family to select a unique monument that truly captures their loved one’s essence.

Leone’s old-fashioned values have helped Akron Monument & Granite Co. maintain its small business approach, with a single showroom, sales staff and the same secretary who has been with Leone since 1975. He offers up-to-date cremation options like monuments that go on top of buried urns and upright monuments with cored-out cavities that will protect cremains. He is committed to making sure every family receives the highest quality of care during their difficult time.

During the uncertainty of 2020, Akron Monument & Granite Co. saw a rise in demand for pre-needed monuments.

Leone worked with each family to choose the type, color, size, lettering and design, sketching it out and sending many to Milano Monuments, a Cleveland-area partner. Milano craftspeople etch, carve and engrave the design into granite monuments.

Leone takes pride in creating lasting monuments that honor the memories of loved ones for generations to come.

One example of Leone’s commitment to creating lasting monuments is the request to redo the upright monument for Simeon Prior, the founder of

former Northampton Township. A descendant had noticed that Prior’s headstone was faded and unreadable.

Akron Monument & Granite Co. redid it, reproducing a granite monument with all the same lettering and adding more lettering on the back, including a genealogy. Now the Prior family legacy will endure for many years to come.

Leone is passionate about helping people and is proud to have served families for 50 years. He believes that each customer deserves personal attention, and that’s why he takes care of one customer at a time. His grandfather, an Italian immigrant, built

the building that Akron Monument & Granite Co. still operates out of today, adding a sense of family history and tradition to the business.

He has assisted more than 10,000 clients since 1973. An important reason why Leone is recommended by so many people is that he can offer some of the best products and services available to his customers.

Leone’s commitment to personal attention and family history makes Akron Monument & Granite Co. a unique and trusted business in the community.

Akron Monument & Granite Co. | 590 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron | 330-252-1746 | akronmonumentgranite.com 14

akronlife.com | MAY 2023

AGENDA

5/14 Mother’s Day 5K Celebrate your mom by running, jogging or walking this stroller-friendly course.

Munroe Falls Metro Park, Lake Area, 521 S. River Road, Munroe Falls. 8-10:30 a.m. $20 kids 14 and under, $30 adults. summitmetroparks.org 5/15 The Wood Brothers with Shovels & Rope This New York-based group plays folk, gospel, blues and jazz. Also enjoy a South Carolina folk duo. Goodyear Theater, 1201 E. Market St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $39.50-$55. goodyeartheater.com

5/17 Red Cross Blood Drive Make an appointment to donate blood. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Carriage House Reception Hall, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. stanhywet.org 5/19 Senior Saunter Enjoy a leisurely stroll while

soaking up nature. Afterward, sip a beverage and have a conversation about nature. Liberty Park, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. Noon-1:30 p.m. summitmetroparks.org

5/19-7/7 “Threads of Connection: Recent Fiber Works by Members of Weave a Real Peace” View artistic creations and traditions from

countries like Argentina, Ghana, Guatemala, India and more. KSU Downtown Gallery, 141 E. Main St., Kent. Free.

Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. & Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. kent.edu/galleries

5/20 Citizens of Hale Plant Sale Browse herbs,

perennials, pollinator-friendly plants and more during this sale, and also enjoy crafting projects and encounters with the farm’s animals. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. halefarm.org

5/20 In Concert with Bobby Watson Take in

tunes by this Grammy Award-nominated saxophonist, composer, bandleader, educator and producer. HUG Event Center, 133 Merriman Road, Akron. 7 p.m. $10-$35. akronc3.org

5/20 Quick Start Kayak Learn about kayaking

techniques and safety during this two-hour program.

Sippo Lake Park, 5300 Tyner St., Canton. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $15 Stark County residents, $20 non-residents. starkparks.com

5/20-21 & 5/23-28 Public Plant Sale Beautify your garden with perennials, baskets and more. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. stanhywet.org

5/21 Winners Concert Audience members can vote on people’s choice award between the first- and secondplace winners from Tuesday Musical’s 2023 Scholarship Competition. Guzzetta Recital Hall, 157 University Ave., Akron. 2:30 p.m. tuesdaymusical.org

5/23-5/28 Akron RubberDucks vs. Bowie Baysox Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our

minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. Times and prices vary. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. akronrubberducks.com

5/28 Yoga on the West Terrace Relax with a yoga class then take a stroll through the gardens. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. $12 members, $16 non-members. stanhywet.org 6/1 Ballet at the Vineyard Watch a Cleveland Ballet performance from the covered pavilion with a glass of wine and light appetizers. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 6-8 p.m. $125. gervasivineyard.com

The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory

Family owned and operated since 1875, with chapels in Fairlawn and Cuyahoga Falls. Now celebrating the sixth-generation of family leadership in dedicated service to the city of Akron.

Complimentary Live Streaming. Virtual Arrangements. Digital Tribute Wall and Guestbook

Fairlawn • Cuyahoga Falls • 330-867-4141 • www.billowfuneralhomes.com MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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story and photos by Kelly Petryszyn

LEBRON JAMES’

LeBron James

has said it can feel like no one cares about you when you grow up in the inner city. His LeBron James Family Foundation’s new House Three Thirty, a retail, dining, entertainment and event facility that opened March 30 in Akron, flips that script by 16

akronlife.com | MAY 2023

putting employees first, giving them opportunities to find their passions and gifting the community a showpiece. It doubles as a job training facility, with the first cohort of 44 employees including I Promise parents, high school students, teachers, volunteers and friends of James and his mother, Gloria.

“It’s no secret about how he and Gloria grew up and some of the hardships that they had.

He is on a mission to provide the resources that he and Gloria struggled with at times,” says Michele Campbell, executive director of the foundation. “Everybody can contribute.

But I don’t think everybody’s been given that message in this world. You just have to take the time, care, learn and reach people where they are.”

Employees staff a first-of-its-kind Starbucks Community Store in a cafe area decorated with Akron-centric murals and the JPMorgan

HOUSE THREE THIRTY

LeBron James’ Home Court

Chase Community Space that provides financial advice, both of which are now open. More spaces will open throughout the year and beyond.

The former iconic Tangier event center has been completely transformed into a stylish, modern space with striking light fixtures and cushy seating in spots like the family room lounge. It has 13 rentable event areas such as a dark wood den, a basement wine room and the redone Smucker Hometown Hall banquet room with large windows that let in natural light. The Cabaret is preserved in the Tangier’s

original Las Vegas style and will host shows again. Opening June 2, LeBron James’ Home Court museum will display never-before-seen memorabilia and a model of the Spring Hill apartment he and Gloria lived in, the Sweet Shop with a soda fountain-style counter will sell local Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream, NORKA beverages, Metropolis Gourmet Popcorn and more and a first-of-its-kind retail shop will sell products from James and local entrepreneurs and James’ wife Savannah’s BBZ Juicery will get a standalone space in 2024. Also find a fast-causal Taco Shop by Old El Paso and a sports bar that is set to

open in 2024. Plus, there’s a teaching kitchen, and there will be plenty of community programming.

The employees get support through a supply room with deodorants, toothbrushes and more, laundry, a hair salon and access to mentorship coaches teaching life skills and leadership. Plus, they can learn every job in the facility to gain more experience.

Campbell chats with us about how House Three Thirty is changing lives.

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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How does House Three Thirty help employees overcome barriers?

Clockwise: The Taco Shop, the Sweet Shop, Starbucks Community Store and bathroom

Michele Campbell: Five of our I Promise School teachers train after work. Not having time to eat, we’ve made sure we’ve done that here. You would say, I’ve got to go take a child to practice. Well, take the child to practice, come here, and we’ll catch you up on what you miss. What I found is a lot of jobs aren’t flexible to allow people to be their best at work and be their best at home. That’s what I think is really important to us. It’s understanding that if you take public transportation, maybe it’s not on time. It’s beyond your control. So how do we allow that not to be a barrier for you?

How does it help employees develop their dreams?

MC: Every morning when I come in, you hear different stories. I love it here.

I’m so excited to be at work. I made my first Starbucks drink. I learned about myself today. I tasted caviar for the first time today. Sometimes everyday life gets so busy that you forget to dream because it’s about get up, go to work, get kids to school, whatever it might be. I feel like what this training model has done is allowed people to experience and pause for a moment and dream. … Everyone has a talent. Having someone that believes in you and gives you opportunities to find that — I think that’s lost.

There’s something that makes you and every single child tick. Let’s find that together.

What does House Three Thirty mean for the community as a whole?

MC: Revitalizing Akron is important to us. We really, truly believe that we’ve worked hard to have something in here for everyone. We want our community to be proud of this so when you have out-of-town guests, you can come here. Making it a destination was really important and investing in our community. facebook.com/housethreethirty To read more and view more photos, go to akronlife.com.

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Clockwise: The Family Room, the Wine Room, the Cabaret, the Den and Akron mural

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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STAR

by KELLY PETRYSZYN and ALEXANDRA SOBCZAK

STRUCK

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akronlife.com | MAY 2023

Local celebrities are proud of their 330 roots. Meet five stars who are giving back and repping the community on the big stage.

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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PEOPLE’S VOICE Emilia Strong Sykes was at Akron City Council meetings when she was just a baby in the belly of her trailblazing mother, Barbara, who was the first Black woman on Akron City Council.

Growing up watching her mother and her father, Vernon, be politicians, both serving periods as an Ohio state representative in the same seat, Emilia saw the effects of long hours and pressures of the public eye. So she thought politics weren’t the right fit for her. Instead, she was a gymnastics state champion and earned a law degree and a master’s degree in public health.

But when Vernon became term-limited in 2014, he asked Emilia to run for his seat. After seeing the other candidates and realizing she was the best fit, she couldn’t resist her call to service. At just 28, she was elected as a state representative, becoming the first Black woman under 30 to serve in the Ohio Legislature.

“I’m really grateful to this community. It raised me. It gave me confidence and strength,” says the now-37-year-old. “I felt like I owed it to the community to give back.”

Emilia has carved her own groundbreaking path. She was Ohio House Minority Leader, and this year she was sworn in as U.S. representative of Ohio’s 13th congressional district, which includes Akron and parts of Stark and Portage counties, becoming the first Black person to represent that district. She introduced her first piece of legislation, the bipartisan RAIL Act, which advocates for railroad safety, following the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment.

In between trips to Washington, D.C., Emilia lives in Akron and loves to talk to the neighbors she represents.

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“Representation is a really significant part of young people being able to imagine themselves in different places. It also helps break down the stereotypes of who the world generally believes can be in positions of power. I told a group of high school-age girls about my experience with not being able to get into the Statehouse because I was told I didn’t look like a legislator.

That does not and should not stop you. It’s their problem that they can’t see the beauty, the grace, the grit, the tenacity, the strength inside you. Just keep going. Put your head up, shoulders back and just continue to be the wonderful person that you are.

You can’t help but think it’s truly incredible that I’m here and the sacrifice people who look like me have made for me to be in a position like this and be an advocate for all people.

Wherever I can help level the playing field, I’m absolutely willing to do it because it really changes the quality of life, the character of the community and the ability for folks to live their American dream.

Akron has such an interesting group of really dedicated folks who work hard, who care about themselves and others. It is truly a blessing to be from Akron and be raised here.

I go to church in the neighborhood, I go to grocery stores, the nature trail. People stop me and tell me what they need.

I see the challenges from our communities, and I want to be a part of the solution.” — as told to Kelly Petryszyn

EMILIA STRONG SYKES

photo by Talia Hodge MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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LOVE AGAIN Michael Allio wrote, Find one thing that brings you joy today, on a Post-it note he stuck to his mirror after his wife, Laura, died from breast cancer in 2019.

“You need to be able to find one thing that makes you laugh, makes you excited,” says the now-38-year-old who was with Laura for 16 years and raises their son, James, now 6. “Then you realize there’s so many more of those around you. It starts to build hope.”

The hope of finding love and happiness again prompted the Copley resident and co-founder and vice president of Mascot Workwear to become a season 17 contestant on “The Bachelorette.” But Allio exited the show after an emotional FaceTime during which James said it felt like his dad didn’t want to see him. Hope was still there, so Allio set out to find love again on the recent eighth season of “Bachelor in Paradise,” for which he requested to be joined by former “Bachelor” contestant Danielle Maltby, whom he had formed an online friendship with. He bonded with Maltby over losing a significant other, as her fiance died 12 years ago, and the pair left the beach together. The nurse practitioner moved to Cleveland in February to be near Allio and James.

Allio keeps busy with his L4 Project nonprofit that he founded in Laura’s honor to sell inspirational apparel that raises awareness and helps fund nonprofits supporting those fighting cancer and their families. He also has a company, Saint James Therapeutics, which developed a formulation to treat a chemotherapy side effect, HandFoot Syndrome, which Laura had and causes severe blistering and swelling. Allio patented it, and universities are interested in taking it through clinical trials.

He talks about love, loss and hope.

“One of the biggest misconceptions is that time heals. I don’t believe time heals. There’s always going to be this hole. You just learn how to operate better with it in existence. The most important part for me is to continue moving forward.

It’s a very difficult thing, but there is hope.

The life of a widower is a little bit complicated. … We live in a very bittersweet world.

I can see Danielle and James’ relationship flourish, them growing closer, while simultaneously I feel sad that Laura isn’t with me to be able to see these milestones that James is going through.

Danielle is somebody that could relate to where I was mentally and emotionally. She’s also someone that exhibits a lot of characteristics I look for in a life partner: passionate about causes, ambitious, caring, nurturing, compassionate.

I left for Chicago for about a decade, and it was during that time when I realized the amazing community that’s in Akron.

I feel like I’m needed here.

Anybody that knows Laura knew that she was a huge advocate for not only cancer research and patient support but a ton of causes throughout Northeast Ohio.

When you go through something like chemotherapy … you start to identify things that are wrong with the systems and the areas that you can help.

Hopefully at the end of this, we can do our little piece and make treatment and quality of life better for people who are fighting for their lives.

I have a calling and a drive for purpose.” — as told to Kelly Petryszyn

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akronlife.com | MAY 2023

MICHAEL ALLIO

photo by Talia Hodge MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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WORDS SPEAK At just 10 years old, Rita Dove decided she was going to read the biggest books on the bookshelf in her Akron house — a two-volume set by William Shakespeare. She wasn’t daunted because her parents always encouraged her.

“They didn’t say, That’s too hard. They said, You’re reading — great! They left me to figure it out for myself,” recalls the now-70-year-old acclaimed poet. “They instilled in us a respect for reading.

You enter into it with openness.”

She also read Louis Untermeyer’s “The Golden Treasury of Poetry” and began writing poetry herself but never shared her writing. She played the cello, was a majorette and read lyrical works, like Tennessee Williams’ plays — at a young age, she was developing the musicality that makes her writing famous. When Dove was a Buchtel High School 11th grader, her teacher, Margaret Oechsner, took some students to meet poet John Ciardi, and she realized becoming a writer was a possibility.

“Akron is pretty much everywhere in my work.

Living there was a privilege and a joy.

As the Rubber Capital of the World … the rest of the world had pieces of Akron.

I wanted to get at the way the American dream was channeled through Akron in my poems.

I composed [“Playlist for the Apocalypse”] to be read over time, just as over time each poem came to fit into the book. Like a playlist, you can feel like, I need a laugh today, so I’m going to stick with “Family Reunion” or “Shakespeare Doesn’t Care.” But you can also say, Today I’m angry and look at A Standing Witness, Angry Odes or dip into the ghetto poems and see how we trap ourselves and how we are trapped by others in our own biases.

I’m hoping it can invigorate, appall and comfort.

Poetry saved me whenever it touched upon something that I thought no one else felt. … I felt like I needed to write those poems [about MS] to explore the ways in which chronic illness can affect a person’s life and how you can get through it.

Dove’s accolades include a Pulitzer Prize for “Thomas and Beulah” about her Akron grandparents, a National Humanities Medal, the National Medal of Arts and a position as U.S. Poet Laureate Consultant in poetry to the Library of Congress — the first Black person and the youngest person to receive that honor.

It was a way of coping. … I had to learn to live with this disease — this was my personal apocalypse.

Her 2021 collection, “Playlist for the Apocalypse,” features groups of poems on topics like the passage of time, the concept of ghettos, the last 50-some years of life-changing moments in American history and Dove’s multiple sclerosis diagnosis.

I’m hoping my poetry is always accessible. It’s about human beings. It’s about life.

Now the Henry Hoyns professor of creative writing at the University of Virginia, Dove returns to Akron to see

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family and attend her high school reunions. She is proud to call Akron her hometown.

akronlife.com | MAY 2023

I really don’t believe poetry is something that belongs in the ivory tower, that you have to have a certain number of degrees to appreciate it.

Poetry uses language to point out the silences behind the language. All the unsayable things we cannot figure out a way to articulate — poetry does.” — as told to Kelly Petryszyn

RITA DOVE

photo by Fred Viebahn

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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photo by Deen van Meer

MARCUS MARTIN

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WISH GRANTED Marcus Martin wanted to play the Genie in “Aladdin” ever since he was watching the Tony Awards as a 16-year-old in Akron and saw James Monroe Iglehart perform a song from his award-winning portrayal.

“To see another plus-size African American actor owning the stage and commanding the attention of everyone in that room and also everyone watching on TV across the world — it was just mind-blowing,” says the now-25-yearold actor. “I was like, That’s a role that I think I can do one day. I’m a little bit too young right now. … But give me a few years.”

Martin was one jump ahead of his dream, preparing for his audition after his graduation from Baldwin Wallace University in 2020 before the role was even available. His hard work paid off — he was cast as Genie in the production that began touring in 2022, bringing its magic to theaters throughout the United States, including the Connor Palace in Cleveland in March. Before the show’s local run, Martin, who lives in New York, taught a jampacked workshop at Weathervane Playhouse, where he got his start in acting when he was 6. It’s all because he loves his roots living in Akron, Fairlawn and Copley.

“If you cut me, instead of blood, it will be pizza sauce from Luigi’s [Restaurant] that might come out,” Martin laughs.

“Akron is part of my DNA and always will be.”

He discusses his dream role and what got him there. “[Weathervane] is really where I fell in love with theater.

That’s where I perfected my craft, and that really prepared me for where I am now.

‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ — the show means so much to me. [Weathervane] did it for 20-something years in a row.

I got to play Joseph my junior and senior years of high school, which was such an honor and a privilege. I learned a lot. Joseph prepared me for Genie in a way because that was my first time really leading a show.

Here I am, playing my dream role.

When they told me, I was just over the moon. I was speechless. It was a moment that I had been working for, praying for and preparing for for so long. I still can’t put it into words.

Genie’s big iconic number, ‘Friend Like Me,’ is a beast.

It is a marathon. It is a 10-minute number. There is tap dancing involved. There is singing. There’s jumping all over the place.

In order to build my stamina to do that eight times a week, over the summer, I was running on the treadmill while singing.

I love making audiences happy. Something about being able to transport a group of people to a totally different place … make them laugh, make them cry, make them feel everything in a short amount of time — that’s really beautiful to me.

So many people have invested in me, and so now with me being able to have these accomplishments, it feels like I can give them a return on their investment. … They believed that I can make my dreams come true, so now that I have made my dreams come true, I get to share it.

Getting to represent Akron on the big stage has been a joy.”

— as told to Alexandra Sobczak

To see videos and additional content from the interviews, visit akronlife.com.

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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photo provided by Kent State University

BEN CURTIS

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FULL SWING Ben Curtis was introduced to golf when he was just 3 years old, and the love he felt for the sport grew into his award-winning career.

An Ohio native, he played golf at Kent State University, and he later won the 2003 British Open — on his first try.

“It was amazing. It’s the biggest tournament in the world,” says Curtis, who also was on the winning Team USA at the 2008 Ryder Cup and won the PGA Tour four times.

“Every great player that’s ever played this game has won that tournament. To be in that same class, it’s an unbelievable feeling.”

“[Coaching is] a great way to help these young men and women that want to play, want to do what I did. As a young kid, I had this dream of playing on the PGA Tour.

So I just want to help them, guide them through that process.

When the job became open at Roosevelt, [Liam] was like, Will you do it? I’m like, Well, I don’t want to get in the way.

I want to be able to watch. He was very adamant that I coach, and I think he enjoys it.

It’s also fun to tell stories. He’s asking questions about the [PGA] Tour.

He’s really gotten a drive for it.

Now retired from competitive golf, the 45-year-old Kent resident’s passion is coaching, which he does at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Kent — where he coaches his son, Liam Curtis — and at his Ben Curtis Golf Academy in Hudson, mostly focused on individual lessons for middle and high schoolers. He also coaches some college students, including at Kent State.

We want him to go out and beat every record that I’ve done or everything that I’ve accomplished — beat it big time.

Over time, he and his wife, Candace, decided to stay in Northeast Ohio, and they run the Ben Curtis Family Foundation, which partners with schools in Portage, Summit and Stark counties to combat childhood food insecurity.

Seeing our [Roosevelt] kids win the Suburban League was a joy and how much fun they had doing it.

“We had a place in Florida, but it just never felt like home,” Curtis says. “There’s a lot of people that are in our same boat that feel the same way. It says a lot about [Ohio’s] people and about the cities and towns.”

The international athlete now focuses on local success, drawing from his victories and guiding students toward their own wins.

I try to keep it simple for the kids. Let them know it’s a fun sport. You learn a lot by playing. Experience, it’s probably more valuable than anything I would ever say.

When my son made it to States last year, that was a big thrill.

He gets that adrenaline. And same when I won my other events.

They’re the moments you live for, right? You do all the hard work for those moments.

It’s something I’ll never forget.” — as told to Alexandra Sobczak

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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EDUCATION

by Alexandra Sobczak

New Gig

photo provided by Theron Brown

Akron jazz performers revamp a jazz studies program.

From Blu Jazz in Akron to the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., Theron Brown and Chris Coles have been wowing audiences with piano and saxophone performances, respectively. Now, they’re bringing that experience and expertise to The University of Akron’s School of Music. Since August 2022, they’ve teamed up to head the jazz studies program as full-time professors.

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Teaching music courses as well as leading efforts such as the university’s Jazz Fest, the program’s co-directors have been reaching out to both students and the Akron community.

Connecting with other musicians, artists and community members is the backbone of the program, and they plan to carry that through as it expands to more students.

“Working with each other to create synergy and collaboration,” Coles says, “that’s the hallmark of the way we want to teach.”

OCTAVE JUMP A revamp of the jazz studies program was much needed.

The director of the program retiring and the impact of the pandemic led to a major decline in the number of students involved.

“We’ve already been able to build it up,” Brown says, adding that although there aren’t any jazz studies majors yet, they’ve recruited music education majors and students in various other majors to take classes and join the Jazz Ensemble Coles directs.

There are now 25 students in the Jazz Ensemble, which is much more than a typical ensemble of 15. The ensemble performs in both onand off-campus concerts.

“The students here are absolutely amazing,” Coles says.

“They have really rallied around this ensemble.”

They plan to limit the membership of the ensemble in future semesters, creating additional ensembles and a small group with various focuses so more students can participate.

EDUCATION

Right now, Brown teaches Jazz Ensemble and Techniques and a Bach to Rock music appreciation class, while Coles teaches Intro to Music Theory. The two plan to add a bass drum professor and a guitar professor to the faculty, and they also hope to add a course that focuses on the history of jazz and specifically jazz in Akron, including some of the notable players and musical pieces that have come from the city.

Both acclaimed musicians and composers, Coles and Brown have invaluable experience as professional musicians based in Northeast Ohio. Brown, a University of Akron alumnus with a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies and a master’s degree in piano performance, performs regularly, runs the artist residency program for the I Promise School through Curated Storefront and is the founder of the Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival, for which he won a Knight Arts Challenge grant.

Coles, who graduated from Youngstown State University and The University of Akron with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in saxophone performance, also performs regularly and won a Knight Arts Challenge grant in 2017 for his “Nine Lives” project, an interdisciplinary piece honoring the lives lost in the 2015 church shooting in Charleston, South Carolina.

“Me and Chris have always played out … and we did that while we were in school too,” Brown says. “It helps transferring from being a student to the real world. You already have your feet. You’re able to start working right away.”

This inspired the off-campus performances during the university’s Jazz Fest in April.

Sean Jones, a Warren native, trumpet player and chair in jazz studies at Johns Hopkins Peabody Institute, has been a mentor to many young musicians, Coles says, and he taught the Jazz Ensemble leading up to a performance at Blu Jazz where the ensemble and jazz studies faculty performed together.

The piece Jones taught was composed by Columbus native and award-winning trombone player Sam Blakeslee. There was also a Culmination Concert featuring both the Jazz Ensemble and Wind Symphony playing that same piece Blakeslee composed.

These connections present students with opportunities to book gigs at the club they played at or to get hired by someone who saw them playing out in the community.

“We’re bringing that to the table because we’re in this and doing it ourselves professionally, not just in Ohio, all over the country,” Brown says. “If I have accessibility to certain things, I need to use those to help everybody.”

Community members and students alike also got to take in a faculty performance featuring Brown, Coles, Jones and Blakeslee at Edgar’s Restaurant in West Akron, which served as a way to bring jazz to a part of the city where performances aren’t usually held.

“We figured it’d be an opportunity to go to that side of town. Jazz is not really played over there,” Coles says, referencing the history of the jazz mecca on Howard Street in Akron in the ’30s through the ’50s, something that he hopes to teach more students about.

Brown adds that he feels passionate about continuing the legacy of jazz in Akron.

“We’re answering the call,” he says. “We’re trying to really celebrate the connection that UAkron has in the grander story of jazz and Akron.”

They’ve both also been educators around Northeast Ohio, including both previously at Kent State University and various camps and private schools in the area, and they’ve both taught master classes as well. Coles was previously a part-time professor at The University of Akron.

Their connections have doubled as a form of recruitment.

“We have relationships with a lot of people, and that has drawn students to us,” Brown says, adding that they have also done recruitment visits at local schools such as Firestone Community Learning Center and are working on obtaining funds to dedicate to scholarships.

“Those that are either going through hardships or they’re super talented, we’ll make sure they have some money.”

SAME KEY Through the curriculum and extracurricular activities, Coles and Brown hope to foster collaboration within the artistic community, both within the university, such as with the Wind Symphony and dance program, and also within the community, with venues for off-campus performances.

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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BEAUTY GUIDE

by Alexandra Sobczak and photo provided by Allied Dermatology

Sun Block Protect your skin during your favorite outdoor activities.

Summer in Ohio is a joyous time when you can finally get outside and soak up some rays.

While you do, make sure you remember to be safe.

May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s important to focus on both prevention and early detection.

“Most of the skin cancers that we deal with tend to be slow growing, but some can be rapidly progressive and life-threatening,” says Angela Funovits, a board-certified dermatologist at Allied Dermatology in Akron and Mayfield Heights. “Early detection helps to preserve health and safety.”

Funovits provides some tips about skin cancer prevention during the summer and beyond.

Why is skin cancer awareness important?

Angela Funovits: When dealing with skin cancers, we’re very fortunate in that for most, as long as they’re detected early, they’re usually not a huge problem for someone’s health. … But the life-threatening nature of melanomas is very real.

Those are the skin cancers that if left untreated for too 34

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Angela Funovits

BEAUTY GUIDE

long, they can metastasize other places and cause serious health issues, including death. …

The best measure is to try to prevent those things from happening in the first place by practicing smart sun safety.

Can you give some specific guidelines on going out in the sun?

AF: The more sun exposure you get over a lifetime, the more your skin receives ultraviolet damage from that sunlight. … The general rule is to err on the side of caution and to try to protect yourself if you are outdoors. …

For sunscreens, you want a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 or higher, and you want to put enough on. The general recommendation is to be reapplying every two hours or if you have been sweating or in the water. Even if it’s a water-resistant sunscreen, it can be a bit compromised by those things.

A lot of patients like spray sunscreens because of the convenience. But we tend to see more sunburns in the patients using those if they only use a light mist and forget to reapply. A

Watch Out If you find any of these melanoma warning signs, ask a dermatologist about them.

Asymmetry: Lesions that are uneven on either side Borders: Irregular edges around the perimeter of a lesion Colors: Bumps or lesions that are multiple colors, such as light brown, dark brown, red, blue or gray Diameter: Lesions that are bigger than 6 millimeters across, which is about the size of a pencil eraser Evolution: If the appearance or size of a lesion changes over time or is bleeding or scabbing

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Safety First

lot of people won’t get very good coverage.

For that type of sunscreen, it’s good to spray enough to the point where it’s dripping a little on the skin and then rub in the excess.

Remember these steps to protect your skin and prevent skin cancer.

If you’re using a lotion on the body, it should be about an ounce, or if it’s just the face, it should be about a teaspoon. If someone is working out or doing yard work, and they know they’re going to sweat … it’s nice to choose a mineral-based sunscreen. Those are the ones with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and those tend to be far less irritating if they do happen to run into the eyes.

•

Wear 30 SPF or higher sunscreen, and reapply every two hours even if it’s cloudy or you’re driving.

•

Put on a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and UV protective clothing, and find shade.

•

Treat sunburns with ice packs, Aquaphor and Vaseline, and if your skin develops fluid-filled blisters, get checked by a dermatologist.

•

Keep an eye on any spots, blemishes and lesions.

Do an annual screening starting at 40 or sooner if you have a family history of skin cancer.

Can you talk about physical sun protection?

AF: We see a lot of skin cancers, especially in men, on the top of the head as they get older, as they’ve lost more hair. It certainly is a place where the sun hits very directly. One of the best ways of protecting that area is with a hat.

It’s a good rule of thumb, if you’re out in the sun, to try to wear a wide-brimmed hat, one that ideally covers both the face and the ears, and even the back of the neck if possible. UV protective eyewear is great and so are UV protective shirts and shawls.

If people are wearing hats, should they still be applying sunscreen to their faces?

AF: Even if you have the area of skin shaded — so for instance, if you’re wearing a widebrimmed hat — the face is still exposed to ambient UV rays. So it is still a good idea to be applying sunscreen to those exposed areas.

Ideal sun protection is accomplished by physical protection in addition to sunscreen.

Should people be wearing sunscreen at all times of the day?

AF: It’s most critical during those peak hours of sun, or when the UV index is very high.

But the truth is that even small amounts of exposure add up over time. My personal preference is to wear sunscreen at all times. I even wear it if it’s cloudy. That’s the time during which a lot of people don’t think about it. But we’re still driving in our cars, we’re still getting UV light through windows and during short walks outside. The more you protect yourself during those times, the less of that cumulative damage you’ll get over time.

Can you describe treatments and surgeries for skin cancers?

AF: Many of the skin cancers that we diagnose end up being treated surgically. … For skin cancers that are not excessively large, we sometimes will treat them with regular exci-

sions, where we take about a 4-millimeter margin on either side of the skin cancer and do what’s called an elliptical excision, where we remove a football-shaped piece of skin … and we confirm that everything was treated.

In some cases, it can be appropriate to treat by what we call electrodesiccation and curettage where we numb the skin. We use a curette to do some superficial scraping of that skin. And we use an electrodesiccation tool, which kind of burns the skin or destroys some of the superficial skin with heat.

Sometimes we can treat it with topical chemotherapy creams, if a skin cancer is superficial enough. … Everything has to be taken on a case-by-case basis, and we’re always trying to do what’s best for that specific patient.

[

Assistant Editor Alexandra Sobczak is passionate about inclusivity, correct grammar and pop music.

Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn at kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com.

]

Cuyahoga Falls 2023

XXXXX Xxxxx

C U YA HO G A FA L L S

by Kelly Petryszyn, photos provided by Cody LaRosa of LaRosa Media

Innovative Find The hidden Watson speakeasy is inspired by the Age of Invention.

Paper Plane

Mr. Watson, come here. I want to see you.

Telephone inventor Alexander Graham Bell spoke those words to his assistant, Thomas Watson, on March 10, 1876, during the ¿UVW HYHU SKRQH FDOO Joel Testa, CEO of Testa Dining Group, used it as the concept behind his new Watson 38

akronlife.com | MAY 2023

speakeasy that he opened March 10 — exactly 147 years after WKDW KLVWRULF FDOO “Thomas Watson was instrumental not only in inventing the phone but would go on to invent a lot of accessories from the phone and then went on to be a naval shipbuilder,” says Testa. “He’s fairly obscure so that obscurity led to the idea that speakeasies are obscure, hidden.”

To even begin to locate the Watson, people need to sign up

for the VIP list, receive clues, follow them to what resembles a post office lobby and locate a hidden door. Inside the dark, moody spot, blue velvet sofas, gray velvet privacy curtains, Edison bulb fixtures, brass decor and candles whisk you back to around the 1860s to 1890s preProhibition Gilded Age, during the Age of Invention era.

“Over half a million patents were issued during that Gilded Age,” Testa says, “some of them being inventions that would forever change our lives.”

Many inventors were from Ohio,

like Thomas Edison, the Wright brothers and Testa’s maternal grandfather, a Babcock & Wilcox engineer who invented a furnace heat exchanger. Find sketches of his grandfather’s patent, along with those from other inventors, inside the leatherbound menu of craft cocktails and mocktails made by mixologists who are like inventors serving you drinks from their labs.

The Alchemist’s Secret Garden ($19) comes out as a beaker of green chartreuse, ginger liqueur, lime, honey and mint garnished with flamed rosemary, in a litup bamboo box with moss and

greenery and a vile of billowing smoke.

“It’s reminiscent of a garden, early morning, where dew, mist and fog rise up and cover the ground,” Testa says. “It’s very light and delicious, and very easy to drink.”

You get involved in creating cocktails like the gin and tonic ($13). Vials of gin and tonic, a pipette of lime juice and limeinfused ice cubes arrive at the table, and you build the cocktail. For Love on the Rocks ($12), you spoon watermelon Pop Rocks into your mouth and then sip a sweet and spicy vodka-based drink, causing a reaction and flavor explosion.

The blue-ribbon winner is the Watson Old Fashioned ($25), completely reinvented. Mixologists use a Japanese coffee siphon to infuse bourbon with vanilla bean, orange, allspice, cinchona bark, clove, cinnamon and house bitters and then cool it with dry ice. In stunning fashion, the bourbon gets sucked up into the siphon as it heats, gets infused with flavorings at the top and flows down the siphon when the heat is removed.

“It’s very smoky, very aromatic. There’s fire.

It happens with a Bunsen burner,” Testa says. “It looks like a science experiment that’s happening in front of us.” watsonspeakeasy.com

Walk the Plank

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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C U YA HO G A FA L L S story and photos by Kelly Petryszyn

Nice Aroma

Sense by the Falls engages your senses as you create candles.

Miranda Imperi

The air is fragrant inside Sense by the Falls.

It’s fitting for the pour-yourown candle bar that opened in January in Cuyahoga Falls.

“It’s supposed to ignite your senses when you come in,” says owner and Cuyahoga Falls resident Miranda Imperi, whose lime green mohawk and gold leaf earrings match the shop’s decor.

Customers sniff scents from a wall of 100 fragrances and

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pick about two to three to craft their candles. They can smell classics like lotus and cucumber or unconventional scents like baked bread and Dr. Pepper. A combo Imperi has been loving is the sweet sultry volcano scent with a floral option. One customer surprised them by mixing mandarin orange, maple syrup and toasted marshmallow.

“It smelled like an orange creamsicle. It was so delicious,” they say.

After picking fragrances, customers select an artistic candle vessel from a fascinating lineup including a ceramic bubble holder and etched aluminum or pewter exclusive by renowned sculptor Don Drumm. They

pour the wax into the vessel, measure their fragrance oils with a gold jigger, stir the candle for five minutes with a long gold spoon and time it with a gold hourglass. Staffers set the wick in the candle while customers make personalized labels and wait 90 minutes for the candle to set or come back later to pick it up. You don’t have to be a creative person to make candles, and people as young as 4 years old have done it.

“This brings an artistic activity and it makes it more accessible to people who are apprehensive,” they say.

Many customers like hanging out in the bold emerald green space with gold accents that’s

a feast for the eyes. From the Sputnik chandelier and script “Ignite your Senses” selfie sign to the gold candle drip table and test tube planters, each detail was thoughtfully curated by Imperi.

“I wanted this to feel warmer and more inviting so I chose midcentury modern inspiration,” they say.

Engage your ears by enjoying live music Fridays and Saturdays, including shows by Katy Robinson May 12 or the Doug Kaufman Band May 27. Perk up your taste buds by sipping a Magna Wine Boutique wine, a Missing Mountain Brewing Co. or HiHo Brewing Co. beer or a cocktail like a moody gin fizz

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

41

made with a mix of a mood-elevating adaptogen-infused Recess seltzer and Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin. Browse the spot’s market for all kinds of aromatic products, like premade candles, customizable hand sanitizers and car air fresheners, as well as live plants from Lele’s Leaf & Vine and locally made wares.

And if you want to explore Cuyahoga Falls while you wait for your candle, Imperi put together fun guides on their website for girls’ nights, family fun, date nights and more journeys that take you

by Front Street stops like the Workz, Jenks Building and HiHo. “It’s definitely a great date night activity or a bonding activity with friends or parents,” they say. “It’s a great introduction to downtown Cuyahoga Falls. It’s the perfect start to an amazing day here.”

1749 Front St., Unit C, sensebythefalls.com

+ 4 Shops to Visit Jean & Lou Build your look with separates in designs and colors that blend well together. For example, the Lets Have Fun asymmetrical slit tank combined with the With A Twist black-andwhite gingham wrap skirt make for a playful summer outfit. And don’t forget to grab a hand-poured allnatural soy wax candle or braided fuzzy slide slippers. 2237 Front St., jeanandlou.com Looking Glass Gifts & Gallery When the gift-giving spirit strikes, stop by this quirky downtown shop for truly original options. Find unique items like a “Dread Pirate Whiskers” bag featuring a cat in a Capt. Jack Sparrow-like getup or whimsical figurines and metal sculptures that look like they were pulled from a Tim Burton film. 2140 Front St., lookingglassgiftsandgallery.com Shelf Life Home to donated reads, Shelf Life offers many low- to no-cost books.

The store welcomes Ohio authors and their books, and it hosts meetups for area literary clubs. Choose “An Aardvark at the Amusement Park?” written and illustrated by Cuyahoga Falls resident Greg Scheetz or “The Garbage Bandits,” a book about a vigilante group of animals that must save the city when it’s attacked by trash, illustrated and written by Falls local Amanda Kowalsky. 2115 Front St., Suite L, shelflifebookstore.com Wild Heart Designs Co. Embrace your wild side with cheeky clothing and accessories like an “If You’re Going to Be Salty Bring the Tequila” T-shirt from this boutique that specializes in custom designs made by owner Michele Cook. For a tamer look, Wild Heart has plenty of lighthearted items like a lilac tumbler dotted with dancing daisies or a glittery globe enamel pin that reads “Life is an Adventure.”

2115 Front St., Suite E, wildheartdesignscompany.com

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+ 4 Restaurants to Try Blue Door Cafe & Bakery The beloved brunch institution recently launched an upscale dinner service from new executive chef Alejandro Najar, who finished third place on Gordon Ramsey’s “Hell’s Kitchen” TV competition. The small plates dinner menu takes you out of your comfort zone with spreadable Calabrian chili duck nduja, citrus honey and house pickles on sourdough or grilled oysters with creme fraiche, crispy chicken skin, fermented hot sauce and pickled celery. Or opt to order from its exquisite brunch classics lineup featuring its incredible French-inspired fresh-baked items including a heavenly flaky croissant that becomes a Croque Madame sandwich. 1970 State Road, bluedoorcafebakery.com Butcher & Sprout Eat clean gastropub fare in a fun atmosphere with sports on TVs, board games on tables and seating on the breezy patio. The menu is heavy on meats and locally sourced, organic ingredients in dishes like the surf and turf burger, an 8-ounce beef patty, a succulent sizable piece of lobster, arugula and lemon aioli or tender beef brisket braised in a smoked Guinness demi-glace. The casual spot is family-friendly with a kids’ menu of grilled peanut butter and jelly and other staples. 1846 Front St., butcherandsprout.com Crave Cantina Tacos get elevated ingredients such as flank steak with truffled togarashi aioli at this stylish spot from the owners of Crave in Akron.

Also find other dishes with global flair like chimichurri fried chicken on a brioche bun or budin Puerto Rican bread pudding with caramel rum plantains. Top it off with a pineapple margarita, prickly pear sangria or mango mojito. 2097 Front St., cravecantina.com Moe’s Restaurant Match your mood at this place that has a fine dining dinner menu with rotating dishes and a laid-back tavern menu. Dine on a juicy rib-eye basted with cowboy butter that’s served with seasonal pepper jack macaroni and cheese and snap peas, or chow down a chicken sun-dried tomato pesto sandwich and loaded tots with Sriracha aioli. Moe’s Restaurant is also known for its creative martinis, like the Purple Haze with grape vodka, blue Curacao, grenadine and Sprite. 2385 Front St., moesrestaurant.com

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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C U YA HO G A FA L L S

by Alexandra Sobczak, photos provided by Collide: Cuyahoga Falls, Denny Stoiber and Cuyahoga Valley Art Center

Vibrant Landscape

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Denny Stoiber

Watercolor artist Denny Stoiber spent about an hour and a half painting live next to the Cuyahoga Falls amphitheater as passersby looked on and a crowd formed, asking questions about his process during a 2021 event.

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The Silver Lake resident and former engineer and landscape architect started taking art classes when he retired 10 years ago, and he is now a member of the Whiskey Painters of America and the Hudson Society of Artists. His work has been featured in Cuyahoga Valley Art Center exhibits in Cuyahoga Falls, and arts organization Collide: Cuyahoga Falls commissioned him to do plein-air painting live as a part of an initiative to bring myriad live artists downtown during the

Cuyahoga Valley Art Center

summer. Collide collaborates with about 10 arts organizations in the city, as well as out-ofcity groups like ArtsNow and Millennial Theatre Project to represent all types of art.

and Case-Barlow Farm Open House July 7.

“If you look at the impact that arts and culture has, it creates a sense of community,” says Kathy Romito, the vice president of Collide. “People find a common voice in art.”

What inspired you to try watercolor painting?

Look for Stoiber’s work at Hudson Society of Artists’ Clothesline Show June 17 to 18

He discusses learning watercolor painting and his love for the medium.

Denny Stoiber: I said, I’m approaching retirement, and I need something to keep me out of trouble. … I contacted Cuyahoga Valley Art Center. I knew nothing about what I was doing. I didn’t know which end

C U YA HO G A FA L L S

of the brush to hold. … So it was a little frustrating at first, but once I got the hang of it … I really got hooked on watercolor painting and have been doing it ever since.

What do you like about watercolor?

DS: The watercolor itself resists being controlled. A lot of times you’ll do something and get what is generally known as a happy accident, where you get one color close to another, and the two will start to blend, and it turns out to be something better than you imagine that it could be. … [It] helps your creativity by doing unexpected things.

What kinds of things do you paint, and what inspires you?

DS: Originally, I painted mostly landscapes. … In Summit County, we’ve got a Metro Park system that has many beautiful parks, and then the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. I live in Silver Lake. We have two lakes in Silver Lake, and there’s some beautiful places to paint there as well. The other thing that’s inspiring is I have several friends who like to plein-air paint. … We pick up our stuff and go and set up in a park someplace and spend a couple of hours painting. That is a fun thing to do.

How would you describe the arts scene in Cuyahoga Falls?

DS: It’s pretty vibrant. [Collide makes] plenty of opportunities in seeing the art talent that is in the city. … You’d be hard-pressed to find a more vibrant community.

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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C U YA HO G A FA L L S story and photos by Shawn Davis

Howlin’ Good

Dogs dine with you at Doodle Drive-in.

Man’s best friend gets a spot at the table at the newer Doodle Drivein, a restaurant where everything is designed to be enjoyed with your pup. Find drivein stations, ample patio seating and a spacious dining room, plus a fencedin “pawtio” dog park with green space for romping around.

There’s a specialized pup menu too, so it’s a great way to treat yourself and your four-legged friend to a meal you can share.

“There wasn’t an area that you could just bring your dog, hang out and do things,” says Sue Hand, who is a co-owner and head chef of the restaurant that opened in May 2022 in the former Retro Dog spot. “We get a lot of people that hike the trails and then afterward, they come and basically carb-load with their dog.”

Spoil your doggy by ordering from the Puppy Bites menu of canine-geared dishes including the Doodle cup ($5), which 46

akronlife.com | MAY 2023

CUYAHOGA FALLS

mixes house-made dog treats with soft serve

vanilla puree on tap, there is a variety of drink

and bananas or the Borzoi Bowl, which com­

options, but in the summer heat, you won't

bines carrots, celery, romaine and tomato over

want to skip the milkshakes. The Buckeye

hard-boiled eggs ($5).

($4.75-$5.50) is where it's at - a chocolate

For you, there's plenty of classic drive-in fare including a sweet and savory Western burger

milkshake interlaced with peanut butter and hot fudge.

($7.75-$10.25) with hand-battered onion

You can also make memories with your pooch

rings, cheddar and sweet barbecue sauce or

by snapping glamour shots at the dog-height

an LGBT sandwich ($9.75) with lettuce, gua­

angel wings Bipolar Butterfly Project mural,

camole, beef bacon and tomatoes on toasted

enjoying live music from local artists Fridays

sourdough. Plus, family recipes of familiar

or Saturdays on the patio or in the dining

dishes provide the comfort of home in a

area decorated with dog-themed art or cruis­

drive-in setting, like prep cook and supervi­

ing summer car shows May through October.

sor Stephanie Ehmann's grandmother's falafel served on its own as an appetizer or scuffed in a warm pita wrap with pickled shallots, rad­ ishes, arugula and cahini or Hand's hometown Detroit coney dogs with a beef hot dog lay­ ered with a house-made coney sauce topped with onions and mustard. 'Tm really about homey food," Hand says, "Maczah ball soup - just pure comfort food."

From floats with any fountain drink to

"Every time we see a puppy or a dog, they're always smiling. We have some dogs chat know instancly when they pull into the parking lot chat they're here at Doodle," Hand says.

"It's looking at the pup's face - seeing how ecstatic they are to be able to eat with their owner. It's a good feeling."

350 E. Steels Corners Road, doodledrivein.com

Cuyahoga Falls' Missing Mountain Brewing Co. beers like the Prince Juice with raspberry

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47

FOREVER YOUNG

by Kelly Petryszyn and photos provided by Dr. Mona Shay

Conquer All A Canton resident becomes a CrossFit competitor in her 50s.

When Dr. Mona Shay was starting to do CrossFit workouts in 2015 and saw a rope hanging in a gym, she almost turned around and walked out. It reminded her of climbing a rope in school, and she thought she would never be able to do it — but one day she did.

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Dr. Mona Shay

FOREVER YOUNG

“I had a really good coach that was working with me. I was able to get multiple rope climbs,” says the now-59-year-old Canton resident and certified CrossFit coach at Midnight City CrossFit in North Canton. “You start feeling this satisfaction of, Maybe I can do this.

It was a challenge. It was something different.”

Shay had been an athlete all her life, starting competitive swimming at just 5 years old. She also did another endurance-based sport, running, and then played volleyball, basketball and softball in middle and high school. But she chose to go to medical school to become a gastroenterologist, and she put sports on the back burner. She competed in a few marathons and triathlons when her work schedule allowed it, and about eight years ago she was looking for a new challenge. Shay found exactly that after she read an article about CrossFit, which consists of constantly varied functional movements with high intensity.

“It can involve anything from gymnastics to running to jump roping to barbell movements — it’s the unknown,” she says.

In all her years of sports, she hadn’t done a lot of weightlifting or gymnastics-type movements,

so when she first started CrossFit, she felt out “Sometimes the biggest challenge of the day is of place. But accomplishing the rope climb lit just getting into the gym and doing a worka spark in her to keep going, and she eventuout,” she says. “So your win for the day or ally began to tackle more movements. She can your intention is, I’m just going to move.” now do a bar muscle up, where you’re underShe has learned to strengthen her mental neath a bar, get on top of it and straighten game and set intentions before each workout your arms. She’s still working on a walking and competition through about five years handstand. of training with her master mindset group.

One of her recent goals is gaining strength.

Members encourage each other to develop She has seen the numbers she can lift triple healthy habits like getting up and journaling, and quadruple over time — and now she can staying off phones before bed, engaging in deadlift 290 pounds! body care like massage and maintaining adequate sleep and nutrition. But talking through Shay has spent so much time mastering obstacles is equally important.

CrossFit that she decided to get certified as a coach, and for the past two years, she’s “Part of the process is just knowing that there’s been teaching a weekly class on Tuesdays at always something you can improve upon, so Midnight City. The hourlong class is incredit can be frustrating at times,” Shay says. “It ibly demanding. Students tackle movements comes back to developing, Why am I actually to elevate their heart rates, mobility, strength doing this? I’m doing this because I want to or skill work and a workout of the day. be fit. I want to be able to do things as I get older.”

During workouts, Midnight City members can record their scores on a whiteboard, and Currently, Shay spends an average of three Shay says sometimes people get too fixated on hours working out daily to prepare for comnumbers. She helps them shift their mindset petitions, with the ultimate goal of making it beyond just setting records.

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FOREVER YOUNG

to the elite international CrossFit Games.

Her effort is paying off. She made it through the CrossFit open, got to compete in the quarterfinals for the CrossFit Games in March and is in the top 40.

Previously, she has done the international Legends championship twice. The rigorous competition involves events such as doing a rowing machine, ski machine and bike and adding the total distance.

Also, she’s competed in the 29029 twice, which is an endurance event where you hike a distance equivalent to the height of Mount Everest by lapping an elevated course at a ski resort multiple times.

The first one in Sun Valley, Idaho, went smoothly, but the most recent competition in Whistler, British Columbia, presented obstacle after obstacle with bad weather.

There were snow, cold temperatures, blowing rain and mud. So instead of doing more climbs and taking longer breaks, she had to spend more time changing gear between fewer climbs. Her set intentions had to change.

“When the weather got really bad, I was just like, I’m going to make it to the next aid station. … It was just breaking it down,” she says. “Maybe things didn’t go the way I wanted them to so I was able to adapt, and adapting was a part of this process.”

Shay is going to continue training daily and work her way through the competition circuit. She says any older person looking to get into a rigorous fitness routine like CrossFit needs to find a great gym with good coaches who will teach movements and adapt them to prevent injury, making sure things are done correctly and that you are staying safe. She also encourages people to keep the mindset that you can’t win every competition, so you have to be satisfied with doing the work.

“It’s a passion that makes me happy. I like being able to challenge myself,” she says. “I like being fit. I like to be an inspiration.”

[

Managing Editor Kelly Petryszyn is an adventure seeker and an avid supporter of #TeamFiona.

Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn at kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com.

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]

GOOD EATS

MAY 2023 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 5

Restaurants [ notable food & drink ]

B Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner A Alcohol available T Takeout available V Valet parking W Wheelchair Accessible $ average entrees less than $6 $$ average entrees between $6-$10 $$$ average entrees between $11-$16 $$$$ average entrees are $17 or higher Information subject to change.

Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.

Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices. 250 W. Market St., Akron, 330-376-0600 $$ B, L, D, T, W Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St., Akron, 330-535-0110; 1991 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-4640; 44 Park Lane, Hudson 330-656-0560; 3895 Medina Road, Fairlawn, 330-665-3102 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Al’s Corner Restaurant Old World comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. 155 Second St. NW, Barberton, 330-475-7978 $$ L, T, W Alexander Pierce Restaurant Fine dining menu of steaks, house-made pastas, calamari misto and cavatelli alla vodka in an intimate speakeasy-style atmosphere. 797 E. Market St., Akron, 330-529-2003 $$$ D, A Arcadia Grille Authentic Italian cuisine with pasta and chops. Breakfast served Sat. and Sun. A local favorite for more than 85 years. 321 Court Ave. NW, Canton, 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A, W Arnie’s Public House An attractive, affordable restaurant with a modern twist on comfort food. Featuring award-winning burgers, chicken and waffles, fish and chips, pasta and vegetarian dishes. 1682 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-0154 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining, specializing in steak, ribs and seafood. 5343 state Route 14, Ravenna, 330-297-1717 $$$ D, A, T Barley House Hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups and more. 222 S. Main St., Akron, 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T, W

Basil Asian Bistro Menu features Thai, Chinese and Korean dishes, as well as sushi and Vietnamese specialties.

585 Market Ave. N, Canton, 330-4523888; 145 W Liberty St., Wooster, 330601-0885 $$$ L, D, A, T, W The Battleground Authentic Mexican food in an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. It specializes in tortillas and salsa that are made fresh daily.

Guests can enjoy street tacos, pozole, carnitas and delicious flan for dessert. 425 Cherry St., Kent, 330548-9019 $$$ B, L, D, T, A, P Beau’s Grille Well-regarded, innovative menu at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn.

3180 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-8675218 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Beau’s on the River Stunning views of the falls with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary decor. Fusion eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sun. brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Belgrade Gardens Famous for fried chicken and homestyle cooking. 401 E. State St., Barberton, 330-745-0113; 3476 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330-896-3396 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Bellacino’s Known for grinders, pizza, pasta and fresh salads. Full bar, patio and banquet room with dance floor.

3657 Fishcreek Road, Stow, 330-6783000 $$ L, D, A, T, W Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood. 137 Court Ave. SW, Canton, 330-453-8424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Bianca’s Ristorante Italian Traditional Italian, juicy steaks and fresh seafood. 4284 Beverly Hills Drive, Brunswick, 330-225-0927 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Big Eu’es BBQ Known for delicious barbecue meals and Kool Aid pies.

The takeout spot also has a small dining area. 1730 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-706-6700 $$ L, D, T Big Eye Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar Menu offers a variety of sushi as well as salads, soups, appetizers, cooked entrees and vegan options to suit everyone at your table. 2965 W. Market St., Fairlawn, Suite L, 330-8364433 $$$ L, D, A, T, W The Bistro at Gervasi Vineyard Situated

on a 55-acre estate in a renovated historic barn that overlooks a beautiful lake. Serving rustic Italian fare using only fresh and seasonal ingredients. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A The Bistro of Green An upscale dining establishment with a diverse menu that features some of Akron’s finest cuisine and gluten-free options made from fresh ingredients. Has a large selection of wine, beer and cocktails, and the inviting atmosphere offers a memorable experience. 3459 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330-8961434 $$$$ D, T, A Bistro on Main House-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta.

1313 W. Main St., Kent, 330-673-9900 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Blue Door Cafe & Bakery Chef-driven sandwiches, quiche, crepes, housemade pastries and rotating specials made using local ingredients. Voted No. 1 brunch in Ohio. Drive-thru available. 1970 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-926-9774 $$$ B, L, T, A Berlin Farmstead Enjoy regionallyinspired homestyle meals including the all-you-can-eat Barn Raising Buffet with mashed potatoes and a salad bar. 4757 Township Road 366, Berlin, 330-893-4600 $$ B, L, D, W, T Bob’s Hamburg Classic family diner with affordable favorites such as the BBQ Bonanza burger. 1351 East Ave., Akron, 330-253-2627; Inside Ray’s Pub, 801. W. Market St., Akron, 330805-1456 $ B, L, D, W, T Boiling House Authentic Louisiana seafood boils with king crab legs and lobster tail. A unique sushi menu diversifies the offerings. 1 W. Exchange St., Suite 150, Akron, 234571-9692 $$$$ L, D, T Bomba Taco & Bar Chef-inspired Latin tacos, international rice bowls and creative desserts like mango mojito sorbet and churro ice cream sandwiches. 3900 Medina Road, Akron, 234-466-7180 $$$ L, D, A, T Bombay Sitar Fine Indian cuisine. Food is natural and prepared fresh daily.

5111 Fulton Drive NW, Canton, 330305-0671 $$ L, D, T, W Bricco Open since September 2003, this restaurant is known for its eclectic seasonal menu, wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. 1 W. Exchange St.,

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Akron, 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T, V, W Bricco in Kent Menu is modeled after the original Bricco in downtown Akron. A la carte brunch on Sun. 210 S. Depeyster St., Kent, 330-677-1335 $$$ L, D, A, T Burntwood Tavern Owned by the same couple that runs the other Burntwood locations, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, smoked, planked and woodgrilled food. 2291 Riverfront Parkway, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-794-7085; 4320 Everhard Road NW, Canton, 234-2099746; 3750 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 234-466-7372 $$$$ L, D, A, T, W The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Hotel complex. 35 E. Garfield Road, Aurora, 330-562-9171 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Bricco This menu is a smaller version of the one at the original Bricco location downtown.

DoubleTree Hotel, 3150 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-835-2203 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Tandoor Casual atmosphere, Indian cuisine. 96 Barrington Town Center, Aurora, 330-562-5334 $$$ L, D, A, T Cana Valley Winery Check out this winery’s 13 varieties. Bring in your own food. 5665 Waterloo Road, Atwater, 330-596-3017 $$$$ D, A Canal Tavern of Zoar Fine casual dining in Zoar’s original tavern and inn.

Features steaks and chops, seafood and Zoar-inspired German cuisine, as well as draft brews and extensive wine list. Sun. brunch. Patio bar and dining along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. 8806 Towpath Road, NE, Bolivar, 330-874-4444 $$$ L, D, A, T Casa Del Rio Mexican dining. 839 High St., Wadsworth, 330-335-4001; Express location, 2927 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-849-5160 $$ L, D, A, T Caston & Main Brew Yard This cozy, casual gastropub with a fireplace and two outdoor patios with fire features offers a large variety of craft beer including 32 taps, with wine, specialty cocktails and 140-plus bourbons, whiskeys and spirits including rare selections. The chefdriven menu offers house-made flatbreads, sandwiches and beer cheese, as well as Sun. brunch. 5010 S. Main St., Akron, 330-882-CASK (2275) $$$ L, D, A Ceedo’s Eatery Traditional Middle MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

51

GOOD EATS UNTAPPED

by Aaron Fowler

Hightower Brewing Co.

After once operating out of their garage in Rayland, Ohio, Greg and Megan Whiting, owners of Hightower Brewing Co., are celebrating the sixth anniversary of their brewery this month.

Nestled on a hilltop not far from the Ohio River near the West Virginia border, Hightower Brewing is the perfect getaway for those looking to take a road trip to one of the state’s hidden gems.

MAZ LAGER

PEANUT BUTTER PORTER

This lager, named after the famed Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman, is just what you want from the style — crisp, clean and refreshing.

Whether it’s your first beer or your last for the evening, this light offering is what you need to calm your taste buds.

Adding peanut butter takes a porter to the next level. This dark porter, at 6.8 percent alcohol by volume, is loaded with peanut butter aromas and flavors you get from a new jar.

While some breweries stumble trying to pull off a natural flavor, Hightower Brewing has no problem capturing the essence of everyone’s favorite companion to jelly.

Here are a few beers you will not want to miss.

[ Aaron Fowler is the key account manager at Cavalier Distributing. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

52

akronlife.com | MAY 2023

GOOD EATS

HILLTOP HAZE One of Hightower Brewing’s specialties is the arsenal of New England-style hazy India pale ales, and Hilltop Haze, one of the most brewed hazy beers, is perfect for the category. At 8.5 percent alcohol by volume, this double IPA is double dry hopped with fan-favorite hops including mosaic and Citra, creating a nice, juicy hop explosion that is soft on the palate.

THROUGH MY LENS SOUR SERIES The brewery’s sour series is its most sought-after line of beers — for good reason.

Firecrackers of flavors from strawberry pie to peach cobbler to peanut butter and jelly fill its release calendar throughout the year. This line of sour ales will captivate the hearts of admirers of this popular style.

Find these Hightower Brewing beers at craft beer stops like Taco Tontos, Forever Urban Craft Winery, the Workz and the Barrel Room.

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

53

Eastern food — kosher and halal — including shawarma and falafel, stuffed whole lamb, hummus, tabbouleh and kibbeh. Closed Mon. 4147 Bridgewater Parkway, Stow, 330-940-2424 $$ B, L, D, T China City Traditional Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. 156 Cherry St., Kent, 330-673-6566 $$ L, D, A, T Chin’s Place Voted the best Cantonese food in Akron by the Akron Beacon Journal, it offers Chinese cuisine with a large selection of vegetarian and vegan options. The menu includes entrees of chicken, beef, pork and seafood, along with a large list of chef specialties. 474 W. Market St., Akron, 330-434-1998 $$ L, D, T Chowder House Cafe Salads, seafood dishes, oysters and clam chowder. 1244 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-794-7102 $$$ L, D, A, T Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 156 S. Main St., Akron, 330-253-1234 $$ L, D, A, T, V Crave Cantina Latin fare meets global tacos at this modern, artistic eatery from the owner of Crave in downtown Akron. Pair your eclectic taco choices with a rum flight of your choice. 2097 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330940-2000 $$$$ L, D, A, T The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard A modern industrial building that houses a state-of-the-art winery facility, wine bar and eatery.

Perfect for a fun lunch, casual dinner or late snack. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000, ext. 5 $$ L, D, A D’Agnese’s at White Pond Akron Contemporary Italian food served in a classy yet casual setting. Live entertainment. Full service catering. 566 White Pond Drive, Akron, 234-678-3612 $$$ L, D, A, T Danny Boy’s If you love the Rat Pack, you’ll love this menu. Try the Old Blue Eyes Mac & Cheese or the Chairman of the Board Calzone. 6081 Dressler Road N, Canton, 330-499-3726; 10 Tallmadge Circle, Tallmadge, 330-633-7844 $$$ L, D, A, T D.B.A., Dante Boccuzzi Akron Modern American food in a rock ‘n’ roll palace setting. Several menu items can be ordered in varied portion sizes, based on your appetite. Vegetarian and vegan options available. Order a drink and relax on the restaurant’s spacious patio. 21 Furnace St., Akron, 330-375-5050 $$$$ D, A, T, V Delanie’s Gastro Bar Comfort food, 54

akronlife.com | MAY 2023

sporty atmosphere and full bar.

Carryout available. 67 West Ave., Tallmadge, 330-630-2888 $$$ L, D, A, T Deli Ohio Fresh deli sandwiches made with all-natural products from throughout Ohio. 328 Walnut Ave. NE, Canton, 330453-7777 $$ L, D, T Der Dutchman A family-friendly comfort food restaurant in Amish Country offering a seniors’ menu, house-made pies and options for vegan and other diets. 720 state Route 97 W, Bellville, 419-866-7070 $$ B, L, D, W, T Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in family-style shish kebabs. 204 12th St. NW, Canton, 330-456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A DeVitis Italian Market Has used traditional recipes to bring fresh Italian food to the Akron area for the last 40 years.

Offers six varieties of pasta sauce, including house-made regular, hot and Sicilian. The house-made Italian sausage is a longtime favorite, and a gourmet deli case is fully stocked with a selection of entrees that are ready to heat and eat. 560 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron, 330-535-2626 $$ L, D, T Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups.

378 S. Main St., Akron, 330-7625877 $ B, L, A, D (Saturdays only), T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, 1950s-style decor.

All steaks are hand-cut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A, No credit cards Divine Food Spirits Wine Casual and upscale American fare, a scratch kitchen and a wide drink selection. 2752 Hudson Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-4400 $$$$ D, A, T Dominic’s Italian Restaurant Since 1987, Dominic Carrino has been using the finest products available for his pizzas, as well as burgers, paninis and other lunch and dinner options.

Carrino is also the owner of JoJo’s Sports Bar, located directly behind the Italian restaurant. 221 S. Jefferson St., Medina, 330-725-8424 $$ L, D, T, P Dontino’s Fine Italian Cuisine Homestyle Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T Downtown 140 New American cuisine using as few ingredients as possible to make an impact and keep clean flavors on the menu at this fine-dining establishment. 140 N. Main St.,

Hudson, 330-655-2940 $$$$ L, D, A Edgar’s Restaurant Serves a variety of entrees, such as chargrilled grouper, along with homemade soups, salads and starters. 530 Nome Ave. at Good Park Golf Course, Akron, 330-869-3000 $$$ D, A, T El Campesino Authentic Mexican cuisine. Carryout or delivery available. 4360 Kent Road, Stow, 330-686-5561; 9169 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-626-9777; 4048 Lincoln Way E., Massillon, 330-477-8731 $$$ L, D, A, T El Fogon Mexican Grill Traditional Mexican fare from the owner of El Campesino in Canton and Perry Township. Full bar and weekly margarita specials. 1080 Interstate Parkway, Green, 330644-7700 $$ L, D, A, T El Rancho Traditional Mexican fare made fresh from scratch each day. 4065 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-922-8112; 1678 W. Exchange St., Akron, 330-8643300 $$ L, D, A, T El Rincon Authentic Mexican cuisine. 720 S. Main St., North Canton, 330-497-2229 $$ L, D, A, T Farmer’s Table With a full fromscratch menu, fresh food comes from the farm to your table. Choose from small plate favorites like charcuterie, or if you’re feeling hungrier, try the buttermilk chicken dinner or applewood smoked beef brisket prepared out on the smoker. 320 S. Court St., Suite 100, Medina, 330-952-2079 $$$$ L, D, T, A, P Fat Head’s Brewery A brewpub with well-known beers, sandwiches as big as your head and hearty appetizers like fried pickles, pepper jack bites and big barbecue wings. 3885 Everhard Road NW, Canton, 330-244-8601 $$$ L, D, W, A, T Foundry Social Have some nostalgic fun with games like duckpin bowling or electric go-karts while enjoying craft cocktails, elevated pub sandwiches and share plates. 333 Foundry St., Medina, 330-333-9000 $$ L, D, A Franklin Square Deli Quality sandwich shop with a racing theme. 108 S. Water St., Kent, 330-673-2942 $$ L, T Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch.

930 Home Ave., Akron, 330-5353733 $ B, L, T Fresco Mexican Grill and Salsa Bar Mexican cuisine including gig burritos, tacos, warm soups, quesadillas and more. Known for its beer selection and extensive salsa bar. 100 E. Erie St., Kent, 330-677-2588 $$ L, D, A, T

GOOD EATS UNCORKED

by Eric Van Sant

Duplin Winery Rose Hill | North Carolina

Established in 1975, Duplin Winery is the oldest operating winery in North Carolina, producing 450,000 cases of wine a year, primarily from muscadine grapes.

While not widely known, muscadine grapes are indigenous in the southeastern United States, growing as far south as Florida, north as New Jersey and west as Oklahoma.

Black or dark purple, muscadine grapes can be the size of golf balls, with very thick outer skin. Duplin also commonly uses scuppernong grapes, which are a variety of muscadine that are green-gold in hue and the state grape of North Carolina.

Here are some Duplin wines to try.

DUPLIN SCUPPERNONG BLUSH Sweet as the summer breeze, this blush ($7.99) is a blend of muscadine and scuppernong grapes. It’s sweet on the palate with a hint of light acidity on the finish, and it’s perfect with spicy barbecue, Asian dishes or simply with potato chips.

DUPLIN SWEET

DUPLIN COTTON CANDY

Just as sweet and enjoyable, this wine ($7.99) is crisp and clean, made from a proprietary blend of muscadine grapes. Enjoy it with cured meats, spicy cheeses or a jalapeno burger.

This wine ($10.99) is summertime in a bottle. A sweet option that welcomes the sun and fun of the season, it has mid- to full sweetness, with notes of strawberries and

hints of vanilla. It’s best chilled with summer fruit or bright summer cheeses.

Find Duplin Winery wines at select Giant Eagle, Acme Fresh Market, Heinen’s and Discount Drug Mart locations.

[ Eric Van Sant is a sales manager at Heidelberg Distributing Co. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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GOOD EATS Fronimo’s Downtown Located within the Canton Arts District, it prides itself on serving creative food. The menu features small plates such as lettuce wraps or tempura cauliflower, salads, sandwiches and entrees. 315 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 234-6408665 $$ D, A The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building.

Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Center Drive, Wadsworth, 330-334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Garretts Mill Diner Breakfast items, sandwiches, soup and house-made ice cream. 4226 Hudson Drive, Stow, 330-926-1344 $$ B, L, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls. 870 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-2670 $$$ L, D, A, T George’s Lounge Handcrafted food made from fresh ingredients and housemade sauces. Known for substantial gourmet burgers, or you can create your own. Menu also includes handscooped milkshakes that come in classic flavors like strawberry, vanilla and chocolate, along with unique flavors like maple cream, creamy mocha and Dutch apple pie. 229 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-4520029 $$ B, L, D, T, A Girves Brown Derby An Akron favorite since 1941. Hardwood-fired freshcut steaks, seafood, wine, craft beer and full-service bar. 4670 Everhard Road, Canton, 330-494-4413; 5051 Eastpointe Drive, Medina, 330-721-1731; 9230 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-626-2171; brownderbyusa.com $$$$ L (only on weekends), D, A, T, W Golden Dragon Chinese fare. Also offers traditional Japanese cooking and sushi. 1634 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-1109 $$ L, D, A, T Greatness Cafe Healthy and delicious options — smoothies, paninis, salads with house-made dressings and juices all paired with positive affirmations and a welcoming atmosphere — in the Massillon Museum’s lobby. 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. $$ B, L, T, W Green Diamond Grille & Pub Upscale dining without upscale pricing. Specializes in steaks, chops, baby back ribs and seafood. 125 Second St. NW, Barberton, 330-745-1900 $$$ L, D, A, T Guiseppe’s Pizza Family-owned pizzeria known for its Sicilian-style square pizza. 14 E. Caston Road, Akron, 330644-8842 $$ L, D, T HiHO Brewing Co. Former educators and co-owners Ali and Jon Hovan plate up fresh pizza with house-made dough and sauce along with myriad draft beers brewed in house. 1707 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 234-3347564 $$$ L, D, A Hopocan Gardens Barberton-style chicken. 4396 W. Hopocan Ave., Barberton, 330-825-9923 $$ L, D, A, T, No credit cards

House of Hunan Common favorites to spicy specialties. Oriental decor. 2717 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-864-8215; 18 Public Square, Medina, 330-7221899 $$ L, D, A, T Hudson’s Restaurant Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chef-driven dishes. Family-friendly atmosphere. 80 N. Main St., Hudson, 330-650-1955 $$$ B, L, D, A, T The Howlin Bird Features a menu full of chicken comfort food entrees as well as an apple spinach salmon salad and house burger. Brunch is served on weekends. 123 S. Main St., North Canton, 234-714-9000 $$$ B, L, D, T, A, P Ido Bar & Grill Home of the beloved Ido Burger. An Akron tradition since World War II. 1537 S. Main St., Akron, 330773-1724 $$$ L, D, A, T Jerzees Sports Grille From salads and pizza to wings smothered in awardwinning Erie Island rub, its offerings make it one of the best spots in Stark and Summit counties for food, sports and fun. With ultra-high-definition TVs and a complete lineup of sports packages, it’s a great place to watch the game and grab some dinner or listen to live music. Jerzees has locations in Canton, Green, Belden and Centennial Plaza. 1019 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, 330896-9464 $$ L, D, T, A, P The Jetty River Bar and Grill Located on the north end of the Sheraton Suites, it is a posh place to have dinner and a drink with a view. Choose from a menu of casual salads, flatbreads and small entrees. 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7544 $$$ L, D, T, A, P Jilly’s Music Room All gluten-free menu of creative American tapas in a sophisticated setting. Live music, concerts and events Wed. through Sat. 111 N. Main St., Akron, 330-5763757 $$, D, A, T, W Jimmy’s Backyard BBQ A family-friendly restaurant known for award-winning baby back ribs. 526 Graham Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-349-6949; 1338 N. Chapel St., Suite 1, Louisville, 330871-0006 $$ L, D, T Jimmy Bigg’s Grille Burgers, Italian subs, Reubens, wings, Philly cheesesteak, BLTs, hand-breaded onion rings and more. 1927 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-2444 $$ L, D, A, T Kasai Japanese Restaurant Sushi, hibachi, noodles, don buri, agamono and more. Finish your meal with tempura cheesecake. 295 Weatherstone Drive, Wadsworth, 330-334-7141; 3875 Massillon Road, Suite 300, Uniontown, 330-899-9788 $$$ L, D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine. Specialties include an antipasto bar, big drinks and an extensive wine list. 1911 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330666-9990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kennedy’s Bar-B-Que Pit-smoked ham, pork, beef, turkey, pulled pork sandwiches topped with cabbage

relish, bean soup, chili and Troyer’s pie by the slice. 1420 Seventh St. NW, Canton, 330-454-0193 $ L, D, T Kingfish A posh yet sleek interior features the freshest seafood of North Coast.

Dress is business casual. Reservations recommended. 115 Montrose West Ave., Copley. 330-777-2005 $$$$ D, A Kosar’s Wood-Fired Grill Award-winning steakhouse offering aged steaks, fresh chops and expertly prepared seafood tastefully in an upscale space decorated with beloved former Cleveland Browns player Bernie Kosar’s own authentic memorabilia.

At the MGM Northfield Park casino. 21 and over only. 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield, 330-908-7602 $$$$ D, A Kozmo’s Grille Stone-hearth pizzas, upscale pasta dishes, fresh seafood and steaks. 37 First St. SW, Massillon, 330-832-8807 $$$ L, D, A, T LagerHeads BBQ Smokehouse and Brewing Co . Try the ribs, smoked wings and beer cheese soup, made with Barnburner lager. For dessert, taste the fruit crisp made with grains used to brew their signature beers. 2832 Abbeyville Road, Medina, 330-7251947 $$$ L, D, A, T Lager & Vine Gastropub and Wine Bar Great service, scratch food and a bar that has offered a comfortable atmosphere since 2012. Try small entrees like the grilled vegetable ravioli or larger plates like double bone pork chop. 30 W. Streetsboro St., Hudson, 330-650-1717 $$$ L, D, T, A, P Lanning’s Restaurant Elegant dining atmosphere with a beautiful view.

More than 150 types of wine. 826 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330666-1159, 330-864-2553 $$$$ D, A, T, V Larry’s Main Entrance English-pub style, burgers of note. 1964 W. Market St., Akron, 330-864-8162 $$ L, D, A, T Laziza High-end Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, plus steak and seafood dishes and a full bar. Acorn Alley, 195 E. Erie St., Kent, 330-6777000 $$$ L, D, A, T Leo’s Italian Social Nosh on comfort food Italian favorites with a chef-driven twist. With everything from woodfired pizza to certified angus beef strip steaks, it’s a great spot for groups to dine inside or on the large patio with bocce. Also take in live music. 2251 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-4004427 $$$$ B, L, D, T, A, P Lizardville Large selection of draft and bottled beers, whiskey and cigars to enjoy on site or take home. Try the Wild Western burger and a glass of Weller Antique Winking Lizard Edition.

21 and over only. 79 Springside Drive, Akron, 330-644-1782 $$ D, A, T The Lockview Traditional American favorites. Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St., Akron, 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T Luca’s New York Style Pizza Pizza, calzones, stromboli, cheesesteaks

and subs. 3451 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-9595 $$$ D, T Lucca Downtown Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Tuscan Italianinspired menu. Now managed by Tony Ly, who also owns Basil Asian Bistro. Call for reservations. 228 Fourth St. NW, Canton, 330-456-2534. $$$$ L, D, A, T Lucia’s Steakhouse Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like house-made lump crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers.

4769 Belpar St. NW, Canton, 330-4929933 $$$$ D, A Luigi’s Restaurant An Akron icon. Open late. Serves superb Italian cuisine, salads and award-winning pizza.

Voted best pizza and best Italian restaurant by Akron Life readers. Party trays and sheet-pan pizzas available with 24-hour notice. 105 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T, No credit cards Lukity Country Inn Homestyle comfort food. 2697 Manchester Road, Akron, 330-753-5983 $$ B, L, D, T Mike’s Place Unique atmosphere, extensive menu. 1700 S. Water St., Kent, 330-673-6501 $$ B, L, D, A, T Missing Falls Brewery Located in the historic BF Goodrich factory, Missing Falls Brewery is the latest addition to Akron’s craft brewery scene. Offering sixteen craft beers, a spacious taproom, an open brewery concept, and a family friendly environment in a turn of the century piece of Americana. Oh, did we mention artisan pizza too? 540 S. Main St., Suite 112, Akron, 234-231-1000 $$ A Moe’s Restaurant Hip, intimate atmosphere featuring a diverse chalkboard menu that changes monthly. Martinis, cocktails and extensive selection of wines by the glass. 2385 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-6600 $$$$ L, D, A, T Molly Brown’s Country Cafe Big breakfasts and South of the Border menu items.

518 Canton Road, Akron, 330-7844711; 493 Portage Lakes Drive, Akron, 234-312-9351 $$ B, L, T Mr. Zubs Deli Hot and cold sandwiches named after movie characters, salads and sides. 795 W. Market St., Akron, 330-252-0272 $ L, D, T Ms. Julie’s Kitchen Opened by Akron native and author of three vegan cookbooks. Specialties include salads, whole grain-foods and spelt flour waffles. 1809 S. Main St., Akron, 330-819-3834 $ B, L, D, T Mulligan’s Pub Local antique decor, award-winning ribs, extensive menu.

4118 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, 330-493-8239 $$$ L, D, A, T Mustard Seed Market & Cafe Mezzanine overlooking the Highland Square natural foods market. Menu reflects same strict standards as the market, with naturally raised meats, freerange poultry and foods free from artificial flavors, colorings and MAY 2023 | akronlife.com

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GOOD EATS preservatives. Full bar and juice bar. Live music on weekends. Sun. brunch. 3885 W. Market St., Montrose, 330-666-7333; 867 W. Market St., Akron, 330-434-7333 $$$ L, D, T Nauti Vine Winery Known for its brick oven baked artisan-style pizza and house-made wines with a scenic view of Portage Lakes. 3950 S. Main St., Akron, 330-644-5444 $$$ D, A Nepali Kitchen Authentic Nepali cuisine like paneer pakora alongside familiar Asian favorites like chicken curry and chow Mein. 399 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-631-1112 $$$ L, D, W, T Niko’s Sandwich Board Cafe Menu of fresh salads, smallbatch soups and handcrafted sandwiches, including several veggie, vegan and gluten-free selections.

1947 W. Market St., Suite 104, Akron, 330-794-5444 $$ L, D, T North End Choose from over 50 fine beers or over 1,000 options of global wine selections along with light appetizers and upscale entrees like rainbow trout and flank steak. 7542 Darrow Road, Hudson, 330342-1400 $$$$ D, T, A 111 Bistro House Manager Meghan Pender and Executive Chef Anthony Scolaro own this eatery which features starters, soups and salads, sandwiches, pasta and entrees, as well as an extensive wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Weekend brunch available. 2736 Medina Road, Medina, 330952-1122 $$$$ D, A, T One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as bacon-wrapped roasted dates and burgers. 49 Village Way, Hudson, 330-342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A On Tap Grille & Bar Relaxed atmosphere, great gyros and Greek food. 3263 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330922-0464; 2736 Medina Road, Medina, 330-725-1972 $$ L, D, A, T

Papa Gyros Greek Grill Authentic Greek fare, wine and beer. 3939 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0707; 4760 Everhard Road, Canton, 330-497-1100; 320 W. State St., Alliance, 330-823-7773; 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-456-9000; 1 N. Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330-247-2475 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s Extensive wine list, fine Italian fare, seafood and steaks. 1561 Akron Peninsula Road, Akron, 330-923-7999 $$$ L, D, A, T Parasson’s Good pasta. Great family dining. 959 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330-724-9375; 3983 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-3650; 364 Wooster Road N, Barberton, 330-753-2264 $$ L, D, A, T Rasicci’s Pizza Deep-dish pizza, fried chicken and jojos from owner Rick Rasicci. 513 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-923-1999 $$ L, D, T Ray’s Place Great burgers, hearty dinners and the area’s largest selection of foreign and domestic beer in the bottle and on draft. 135 Franklin Ave., Kent, 330673-2233; 25 Ghent Road, Fairlawn, 330-835-2233 $$ L, D, A, T Rizzi’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Northern Italian recipes shine at this family-owned restaurant with fried chicken that has garnered its own trademark. 2809 Copley Road, Copley, 330-666-1221, 330-668-2626 $$ L, D, T Serenite Restaurant Fine French dining includes oysters, escargot, duck confit and smoked salmon. Socially conscious mission with a staff made up of people in recovery from addiction. 538 W. Liberty St., Medina, 330-952-2611 $$$ L, D, A, T Shawarma Bros. Get a taste of authentic shawarma lamb, chicken or beef in a rice bowl or on pita bread and falafel, then finish off your meal with baklava at this affordable takeout restaurant. 1808 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-3996 $$ L, D, T

Sisters Century House Historic building overlooks Ohio Canal. Known for twice-baked potatoes. 123 S. Canal St., Canal Fulton, 330-854-9914 $$ B, L, D, T Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition.

Drive-in burgers, fast fare. 2781 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Road, Green, 330-896-9350 $ L, D, T Tail Gators Sports Pub & Grille This sports pub and grill features burgers, wings and the longest happy hour around. 469 College St., Wadsworth, 330-334-5151 $$ L, D, A, T Taqueria La Loma Traditional Mexican street food in a colorful environment and market. The house special, the al pastor, features a rub with a secret recipe that gives the pork a smoky-sweet flavor. 459 Darrow Road, Akron, 330-784-9300 $$ L, D, T, A Taste of Bangkok & Sushi Bar Menu includes curries, noodle dishes and hand-rolled sushi. Variety of lunch specials. 514 E. Exchange St., Akron, 330-2522270 $$ L, D, T Thano’s Family Restaurant Burgers, chops, chicken, wraps, seafood and pasta. Breakfast served all day, daily specials, Friday fish fry. 50-seat party room. 71 Fifth St., Barberton, 330-861-1300 $$ B, L, D, A, T Virtues Signature foods such as a tempura calamari appetizer, specialty pizzas, filet mignon and other gourmet items with high nutritional values on Summa Health System Akron Campus. 525 E. Market St., Akron, 330-375-7444 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, V Wally Waffle Breakfast served all day. Try the Elvis Waffle, loaded with bacon and peanut butter chips and topped with honey and sliced bananas. Plus, burgers, gyros, sandwiches and more. 845 W. Market St., Akron, 330-374-4915; 100 North Ave., Tallmadge, 330-633-7400; 3997 Medina Road, Bath, 234-4660155 $$ B, L, T The West Side Bakery Specialties include cakes, pastries and cookies. Breakfast items include scones, muffins and yogurt parfaits. All sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups are made from scratch. 2303 W. Market St., Akron, 330-836-4101 $ B, L, T Whitehouse Chicken A Barberton tradition. 180 Wooster Road N, Barberton, 330-745-0449; 4195 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330-896-5644; 199 Great Oaks Trail, Wadsworth, 330-335-6000 $$ L, D, T Whitey’s Booze N’ Burgers Famous chili, generous portions and live entertainment on the weekends.

3600 Brecksville Road, Richfield, 330-659-3600 $$ D, A, No credit cards Wise Guys Lounge & Grill Located in the former Nick Anthe Restaurant, this spot, owned by Tom Procaccio, features steaks, seafood and pasta dishes. 1008 N. Main St., Akron, 330-922-3006 $$$$ L, D, A, T Wolf Creek Tavern Housed in the former Loyal Oak Tavern, this restaurant serves craft beer, wine, salads, wraps, burgers, pasta, steaks and housemade pie. Kids menu. 3044 Wadsworth Road, Norton, 234-571-4531 $$$$ L, D, A, T Yours Truly This award-winning restaurant is familyowned and operated, with an emphasis on customer service and family-friendly dining. Try the burgers and breakfast items. 36 S. Main St., Hudson, 330-656-2900; 3725 Medina Road, Medina, 330-7225800 $$ B, L, D, A, T Please send any changes or corrections to kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com.

Go to akronlife.com to view more area restaurants & events.

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akronlife.com | MAY 2023

PARTING SHOT

by Shawn Davis, photo cour tesy of Summit Memory/Akron-Summit County Public Library

“

Wild West Akron, 1945

”

Long before video killed the radio star, “The Roy Rogers Show” was all the rage during its 1944 World War II-era radio debut, sponsored by Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. its first year. Featuring Western film superstar Roy Rogers and his band, Sons of the Pioneers, the show ran on over 500 stations at its peak and included country tunes, “campfire banter” and lighthearted dramatic skits. Here, Rogers poses with the “Rosie the Riveters” who took men’s places during the war at Goodyear Aircraft. Rogers was in the S.G. Ranch Rodeo at the Cleveland Arena and went to Goodyear to see how tires and tubes were made.

Ohio remained a favorite for the star, who later resided in California, as he came back to Akron for the Soap Box Derby, where he raced in a farm animal car against actors Jimmy Stewart and George Montgomery in 1957.

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